Iris Caddis
Hook: Tiemco 102Y Size 15-17 or standard dry fly hook
Shuck: Caddis Gold or Caddis Amber Crinkled Zelon
Body: Hydropsyche Tan Zelon Dubbing or Natural Hare’s Ear Dubbing
Wing: Loop of White or Dun Zelon
Head: Rough dubbed Hydropsyche Tan Zelon Dubbing or Natural Hare’s Ear Dubbing
I first learned of this fly from fellow HFFA member Pat Gaffney. This pattern was developed by Blue Ribbon Flies of Montana. It imitates an emerging caddis and is very effective. It’s a great fly to use on the Housatonic.
In fact if you visit the Long Island Fly Rodders website http://www.lifr.org/home.htm , then click on the flies section, they recommend this pattern for their annual fly fishing trip to the Hous.
To tie this fly begin by attaching thread and tie on a shuck of zelon equal to the length of the hook shank. Dub the body forward two-thirds the length of the hook shank. Lay a loop of zelon back over the body and tie down where the body ends. Dub a rough head to the hook eye. Whip finish.
You can fish this pattern in the “film” or treat it with floatant to make it ride higher. I like to use it fishing 2 dry flies. An adult elk wing caddis is usually my lead fly.