BY SCOTT CURRIE
For Wild Northerner
Fly fishing for northern pike, musky, bass and even giant walleye can be effective and there can be no more an exciting feeling in angling than watching a 40 plus inch pike or musky chase down a fly. A few short years ago a minority of fly fishers would generally modify saltwater fly gear as an effective means to fish for freshwater predators. Now, the scene is buzzing and manufactures have responded with rods and lines tailored to the art of pursuing toothy critters.
Tying materials have also come a long way in a short time. I’m convinced successful flies need to incorporate certain characteristics and having the right profile is probably the most important. With the right materials, a fly’s profile will push water yet still have mobility. Size and colour will be a personal preference depending where, when and what you’re fishing. Flies that incorporate some additional noise will also add to success. The wiggle tails do this brilliantly. Glass rattles are among other things to also consider.
A fly’s fishability is one thing but the choice of materials will also reflect how that beast will cast. There’s no point spending hours creating a beautiful fly only to find out that it’s too heavy to throw. Consider your rod and line sizing.
If you fancy knocking something out the vise I would recommend the following pattern to get started. Don’t let the size of these flies put you off, if you can tie a woolly bugger then these won’t pose much of a problem.
Flies for the North