In keeping with the smallish fly theme, I tied up these X-Wing Caddis flies (green bodied/deer hair wing) on size 18 hooks. Simple to tie, I actually have had wonderful success with this pattern with green trailing shuck/green body and amber trailing shuck/tan body. The trailing shuck is sometimes called a ‘tail’. Consider it (the Zelon fibers) to be the still attached nymphal body that the Caddis is attempting to separate from. Don’t tie it in too short or thick. I use a single strand of Krystal Flash for the ribbing. Deer hair for the wing (some use Yearling Elk Hair).
Excellent How To Video for Mathew’s X Caddis Fly Pattern
Cool fly! What’s the thorax/head consist of?
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In this instance it was Ice Dub in the observed colors. I believe the colors are key with this pattern so, I personally don’t think it matters what the body material is as long as it promotes flotation, matches the color/buggy look and allows for a slender profile for small flies.
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