Baby Doll

Start by catching the thread a short way back from the eye and wrap it tightly down the shank to make a neat base layer.

This fly is an old fashioned design but it is still good for trout. You can experiment with a variety of materials for the body, substituting cactus fritz for the wool or even experimenting with straggle fritz, ostrich herl or other materials. You can also add weight to the fly with a pair of beadchain eyes.

Fold a piece of double knit wool in half and catch it near to the bend of the hook.

Bend the doubled wool back out of the way. Catch a longer piece of wool at the back of the hook.

Bring the thread up to just behind the eye. Then use the longer piece of wool to make a wool body. Tie off with the thread.

Fold the double strand down to make the back of the fly. Catch it just behind the head and tie it off.

Finish the fly off by using a teasel brush on the dangling strands of wool at the back. This will brush out the wool and give the fly some action in the water.