Tying Whitlock's Red Fox Squirrel Nymph
Whitlock's Red Fox Squirrel Nymph is one of the best nymph patterns ever. Dave Whitlock recently passed away. His legacy lives on in his countless articles, books, and stellar fly patterns.
I first started fishing this fly in the early 1990s and it has been a staple in my box ever since. Much like a Hare's Ear Nymph or Pheasant tail nymph, this simple pattern can be fished anywhere trout live. It is such a versatile pattern.
Over the years, I have tied many different variations of this fly. This refined version is the one that I now keep in my fly box. Tie in sizes 12-18.
Hook: Fulling Mill Heavy Weight Champ or Similar size 12-16
Bead: Round Tungsten Copper sized to match
Thread: Classic Waxed Fl Red 8/0 or 12/0
Tail: Squirrel Guard hairs from squirrel strip or body piece
Rib: Tan Iridescent thread
Abdomen: Whitlock SLF Red Fox Squirrel Abdomen or SLF Squirrel squirrel belly dubbing
Thorax: Whitlock SLF Red Fox Squirrel Thorax or SLF Squirrel Dub Natural Fox Squirrel
Soft Hackle: Hen Cape Feather- I prefer the CDL Hen Capes from Whiting but any hen cape/neck feather will work. Color should be light brown - ish
