SOS Fly Tying Pattern by Spencer Higa's

November 26, 2011 By Lance Egan

Spencer Higa created the SOS fly pattern with Baetis in mind. Once the red wingcase was added this fly took a turn toward an attractor style nymph while retaining its imitative traits. Generally speaking, Baetis nymphs are dark in color with a slim profile and noticeable segmentation in the abdomen. This is a quick tie, and will work great throughout the year with peak times during Baetis (BWO) hatches spring and fall as well as through the winter months when much of a river Trout's diet consists of baetis nymphs and midge larva/pupa. Spencer also uses the SOS on lakes suspended under an indicator or retrieved, usually behind a larger fly like a leech or wooly bugger.

This video link (courtesy of youtube.com and Curtis Fry) has the recipe and tying instructions:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=8jEgxHC1MJ0

For those who don't tie flies, the SOS is available from Orvis, or Spencer can tie a few for you. He can be reached via email at ifishfish@gmail.com Spencer Higa guides fly fishing and wingshooting at Falcons Ledge in Altamont, Utah.

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