how to tie a crane fly

Crane flies, also known as daddy longlegs, are a common household insect that can be found all around the world. While they are harmless to humans, they can be a nuisance when they fly around and invade our personal space. In this article, we will guide you through the process of tying a crane fly, a fly fishing pattern that imitates the look of the crane fly.

Materials Needed

Before we get started, let's gather the necessary materials:

• Hook: Dai-Riki #285, size 14
• Thread: UTC 70, brown
• Tail: Pheasant tail fibers
• Abdomen: Barred brown silicone legs
• Wing: Natural deer hair
• Head: Peacock herl

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the materials ready, it's time to start tying the crane fly. Follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Start by placing the hook in the vise and wrapping the thread around the shank, starting from the eye and moving downwards.
2. Tie a small bunch of pheasant tail fibers to the hook shank to create the tail.
3. Take two silicone legs and tie them on each side of the hook shank to create the abdomen. Make sure to keep them tight and parallel.
4. Take a small clump of deer hair and tie it to the hook shank for the wing. It should be positioned just behind the eye of the hook.
5. Using peacock herl, create the head by wrapping it around the hook shank just behind the deer hair wing. Make sure to tie it off and secure it with a whip finish.
6. Trim the legs, tail, and wing to the desired length.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you tie the perfect crane fly:

• Make sure to keep the silicone legs parallel to create a realistic abdomen.
• When tying the deer hair wing, try to keep it on top of the shank and flared out to the sides. This will give the fly a more natural look.
• When wrapping the peacock herl for the head, be careful not to wrap it too tightly. This can cause the herl to break or unravel.
• Experiment with different colors and materials to create your own unique crane fly pattern.

Conclusion

Tying a crane fly is a fun and rewarding experience for any fly fishing enthusiast. With a few simple materials and some basic tying skills, you can create a realistic-looking fly that will attract fish in no time. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, the crane fly pattern is definitely one worth trying. Happy tying!"