How to Tie Tricos Flies

The trico is a small, black insect that is prevalent on cold water rivers and streams. The insect hatches in the late spring, summer and early fall with regional variances. Tying trico flies requires minimal materials, and the ability to control small portions on a small hook. The spinner is the most common trico pattern, and it may be fished on the surface or subsurface. Tricos hatch in large numbers, and the insects are a valuable food source for trout.

Things You'll Need

  • Fly tying vise
  • Dry fly hook No. 18-to-24
  • Black 8/0 thread
  • Micro fibets
  • Black dubbing
  • Dubbing wax
  • White antron
  • Whip finisher
  • Head cement
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Instructions

    • 1

      Secure the hook in the fly-tying vise. Start the thread at the one-half point on the hook, and wrap it forward to the bend in the hook. Make five thread-wraps at the bend to create a small thread ball.

    • 2

      Pull two micro-fibets from a bunch; measure the fibers to double the length of the hook shank. Hold the fibers on the hook bend, and use the thread ball to split them on each side of the hook. Make four thread-wraps to secure them in place.

    • 3

      Wrap the thread three-quarters of the way down the hook shank. Cover the shank with each wrap to form a thread abdomen.

    • 4

      Measure a piece of white antron to match the length of the hook shank. Hold the antron between the eye of the hook and the end of the thread abdomen. Secure the antron to the hook shank with four thread-wraps.

    • 5

      Apply a small amount of dubbing wax to the thread. Place a thin layer of black dubbing against the thread; twist it with your fingers to tighten it to the thread. Wrap the dubbing to form a small, ball-shaped thorax. Weave the dubbing around the thorax to force the wing into an upright position.

    • 6

      Tie several half hitches at the eye of the hook with a whip finishing-tool. Apply a small drop of head cement to lock the thread in place and add durability to the fly.