FLY GALLERY

This basic beetle is a must have terrestrial pattern during the month of August. As aquatic insect activity has tapered off during the mid-day hours, trout tend to concentrate on land dwelling insects such as ants, beetles and hoppers. This beetle is highly visible, durable and high floating. Many classic beetle patterns utilize peacock herl for the insect’s underbody and while this works extremely well, durability can be an issue. Ice dub seems to be an excellent substitute for peacock - not only is it durable, it provides the sheen we’re after. This is a great small stream pattern fished by itself or can be used on the bigger rivers as a dropper behind a visible hopper pattern.

Beetles are relatively easy to tie. Make sure to keep the dubbed body sparse so as to allow the fly to float well and use a relatively narrow strip of foam for the shell. Narrow foam is easier to secure properly and will also allow the deer hair legs to splay out properly. Always put more legs on than you need as some will inevitably disappear while fishing.

Ice Beetle
Hook: Tiemco #100 size 16-18
Thread: Black 8/0
Body: Olive/Brown Ice Dub
Shell: Black Foam
Legs: Dyed Black Deer Hair
Indicator: White Foam