How to Tie a Caddis Fly

An adult caddis fly has two pairs of wings over its abdomen, long antennae and wing edges featuring fine hairs. The caddis is a significant part the daily diet of many fish species. Caddis-imitation flies often entice fish. Various fly patterns are available using different threads, feathers and dubbing material.

Things You'll Need

  • Thread
  • CDC feathers
  • Dubbing
  • No. 12 to 20 hooks
  • Vise
  • Scissors
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make thread wraps from the hook eye toward the bend of the hook. Cut off any excess.

    • 2

      Wrap dubbing from the bend toward the eye; stop a few millimeters from the hook eye. Leave space for the feathers.

    • 3

      Position four CDC feathers so that the tips are aligned with the end of the hook; the base of the feathers must face the front. Make three or four wraps near the hook eye ,about 1/8 inch from the tip. Tie off and cut away the excess feathers.

    • 4

      Add a little more dubbing near the front to hide the base of the feathers. Tie off the fly.