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