If I was fortunate to be headed to B.C.’s Interior Lakes in June or July or the higher lakes now, I would take the below flies as my primary patterns. If you study B.C. patterns, you will not see these patterns often referenced. The typical staples, save the Chironomid Patterns, are much different, yet highly effective. Doc Spratleys, Carey Specials, 52 Buicks, Half Backs and Fullbacks, Maroon Leeches, Tom Thumbs and Mikulaks are but a few of the patterns that rarely see the US (except Carey’s). I have faith in my suggested patterns and would also include the Prince Nymph, the Scarecrow Mini Dragon, Palomino Midge, Parachute and Regular Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, a greenish gray scud, a Pheasant Tail Nymph and The Orb just because it works, (Callibaetis or not). I’m posting these flies because I have had some enquiries on what I would recommend for B.C. Stillwaters. I assume these enquiries are from non-B.C. residents. Of course, I am no expert, nor am I a Chironomid fanatic, but out of a few trips North I have built confidence in patterns and the shared information from others that venture North from Merritt to Williams Lake and points East. Study B.C. patterns and you will notice a decided contrast. My patterns are no better than B.C. staples, but perhaps something to add to that traditional repertoire for one of the greatest fisheries, bar none.
- Minnow Bugger
Of course, these patterns are infused with B.C. flyfishing genetics. The Little Fort Leech, The Sno-Cone type Chrionomid Pupa, The Georgie’s Damsel, The Lake Bait (a Carey Special variation of sorts) are B.C. inspired or owned. The list is by no means the end all of pattern lists. A blood worm chironomid could be added, waterboatman for the spring and fall, streamers etc. I would have all that along as well, but then I always over plan. I am just keeping it simple with what, in the course of a week, I would most probably repetitively remove and tie on.
SwittersB & Exploring 