Salmon Trolling Fly Tying Instructions

Salmon trolling flies are typically larger patterns made from feathers, deer or rabbit fur strips, or synthetic silver glitter strips. These flies are tied in much the same way as a minnow fly, but there are differences. These include hook size and materials. In some trolling flies, a spinner is added. Others use simple patterns with a few modifications.

  1. Tying Spinner Trollers

    • A spinning trolling fly attracts fish with the movement of the spinning spoon located on the end of the fly. This spoon flashes and creates sound as it is trolled. To tie one of these flies, follow a typical muddler minnow pattern. Use rabbit fur, feathers or streamer glitter to form the body of the minnow and its tail. This is tied to the shaft of a straight hook with thread and then coated with glue. Before the thread is added, however, attach the spinner and a metal bead. Glue the bead in place after the body of the fly is tied.

    Streamer Trollers

    • A streamer trolling fly is tied like an ordinary streamer with feather, fur or glitter streamers for the body on a long, straight hook. Since this is a trolling fly, you will want to cut down on wear due to water drag. So, tighten the thread when you tie on the body of the fly and use a hard glue to secure it. Wire and a metal bead are also used in this case to add weight to the fly. Trolling can bring the fly to the surface, so additional weight is one way to counteract this action.

    Nymphs

    • Nymphs are also considered trolling flies. These flies mimic the patterns of regular hatching nymphs. A typical trolling nymph pattern is tied on a straight shaft hook. A piece of yarn is attached to the body to reflect the long, thin body of the emerging insect. This is any color you choose, but typical colors include red, pink, yellow, green and brown. Match the color to your stream, or tie a whole bunch to have the right color on hand all the time. The head is finished by tying deer hair to the top of the hook, and securing it with glue. For salmon, this pattern imitates a leach. Add a bright red salmon egg to the head to enhance the effectiveness during spawning season.