One of our favorite things about fly tying is the space for creativity and innovation. But sometimes, the simplest patterns can be the most effective. That’s certainly the case with the Buckskin. In this fly tying video, Anglers All fly tying expert Ben Baxter walks us through tying one of our favorite classic fly patterns – the Buckskin.
Ed Marsh developed this version of the Buckskin back in the 1970s, although some anglers around our shop will tell you a version of this fly came much earlier. Since then, there have been countless variations with different techniques and materials. No matter which way you tie the Buckskin, the beauty of this fly is its simplicity. At first glance, it’s not beautiful at all. In fact, if you’re not familiar with the Buckskin, it might look underwhelming.
Don’t let the simple appearance fool you. This fly has been a deadly pattern for decades, just as much today as it was almost 50 years ago. What does it imitate? It was originally developed to imitate caddis larvae. This pattern is deadly anywhere you find caddis – from our home waters here on the South Platte to high alpine waters above timberline and anywhere in between.
Tied in smaller sizes, the Buckskin can also play the role of a midge emerger, with the tail acting as the trailing shuck. Or maybe you just call it a general attractor pattern. Whatever the case, this is a fly that deserves a place in your fly box.
Take a look at the fly tying video, as Ben shows us how to tie the Buckskin:
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Materials List:
HOOK: Tiemco 100 (#16 - #20)
THREAD: 8/0 UNI-Thread (Black)
TAIL: Nature's Spirit Dry Fly Tailing Fibers (Brown)
BODY: Chamois Strip (Tan)
Contact Us With Questions
If you have questions or need help getting started, please reach out. If you’re in the Denver area, visit us at the fly shop in Littleton. Otherwise, give us a call at 303-794-1104. We’d be glad to help you with fly tying tips, tools, materials or anything else to help you along the way.
