The Ray Charles
Tied by Bill Becher
This pattern imitates freshwater scud and sow bugs, often found in Western tail-water fisheries and spring creeks. Tied by Montana guide Bob Krumm, the name according to Bob, comes from the a blind person can catch a fish with this pattern (but can he sing and play piano?). This pattern should be a winner on Hot Creek.
Hook: Tiemco 2457 scud size 14-18
Thread: Red 8/0
Tail: None.
Abdomen: Gray, olive, tan, or orange ostrich herl.
Back: Medium Pearl mylar tinsel
- Wrap shank with thread.
- Tie in mylar tinsel below the bend.
- Tie in 2 ostrich herls slightly ahead of tinsel and wrap forward, tie off at head and cut.
- Pull mylar over back and secure at head.
- Whip finish.
This is a classic "guide fly" - easy to tie and it catches lots of fish. Bob suggest using 2457 scud hooks rather than the thinner wire 2487 if you want to catch big fish.