Bucktail Coachman

I am going to finish out the month with one last "oldie, but goodie" steelhead fly- the Bucktail Coachman.   Never underestimate the power of peacock herl!  This fly still pumps out a lot of steelhead for those that tie it on regularly.  When tied in smaller sizes the Bucktail Coachman is a sure bet on our eastside rivers such as the Methow and a favorite of mine in the late summer on the Kalama.

Materials

Hook:  Choice (Pictured is an Alec Jackson steelhead iron)
Tag:  (Optional) Fine gold Lagartun tinsel (Original did not have a tag,)
Tag:  Red silk floss (Originally red hackle fibers)
Rib:  (Optional) Fine gold wire
Body:  Peacock herl
Hackle:  Brown hen
Wing:  White Australian sheep (Originally bucktail)

Step 1:

Start thread on return wire loop and wind down hook shank just past the halfway point.  Wrap tag with 4 to 6 turns of tinsel.  The end of the tag should be in a vertical alignment with the hook point.

Step 2:

Tie in floss tail.   The length of the tail should be just past the hook bend.

Step 3:

Tie in gold wire under the hook shank.  The wire should be secured in approximately the 7 o'clock position (near side).

Step 4:

Tie in 3 to 5 peacock herls and wrap forward.  



Step 5:

Wind rib forward with 5 counterwraps. 

Step 6:

Tie in and lock brown hen hackle.  Length of hackle should extend just to the hook point or a little past it.



Take 2 or 3 turns of hackle.

Step 7:

Tie in wing.  Length extends to the bend or slightly past it.  Apply two coats of thin head cement and one "finisher."

I am sure someone is going to ask.... "Where did you come across the Australian sheep?  I am very fortunate to work in the auto industry.  Some time ago I received and call from a lady that wanted to come to our dealership and take measurements of seats in the new Honda Pilot for seat covers.  I simply asked if there was any scraps laying around...  the rest is history!  The stuff is some of the most "wispy" winging material I have ever used.  It can be a wee bit of the pain to tie because of it's fine nature, but it moves in the water.  I use it mainly on smaller size 5 and 7 flies.

Next month I will be showcasing some saltwater flies for our Northwest waters!  Many of the flies are of my own design.  From salmon to searun cutthroat, I am sure you will enjoy reading the blog.  In fact, I hope you tie and fish them!

See you on the water!