The Mystery of Colours in Salmon Flies
Salmon and trout possess highly specialized vision, finely tuned to detect a range of colours. This adaptation is crucial for their survival, helping them locate prey and avoid predators. Their ability to perceive colours such as red, green, and blue, along with ultraviolet (UV) light, makes the colours of our flies an important factor in enticing these fish. The right combination of hues can make all the difference when fishing for these elusive species.
The Iconic Jock Scott Salmon Fly
One of the most renowned patterns in the world of fly fishing is the Jock Scott. Believed to have been created by the ghillie Jock Scott while crossing the North Sea, this fly is now a must-have in every serious angler’s arsenal. It is a testament to the power of colour and design, playing a key role in its enduring popularity among salmon anglers around the globe.
Design of the Centuries
Victorian fly tyers were true pioneers, crafting intricate and striking flies that remain iconic today. These early designs often featured up to 30 different feathers, glimmering metal threads, and vibrant silk threads, all meticulously combined to create flies that were both visually stunning and highly effective. Their legacy continues to influence modern fly patterns.
Bridging Tradition and Innovation
The success of classic fly patterns from the Victorian era was not just about visual appeal but also the use of natural materials like feathers and wool. These materials have a unique ability to attract trout and salmon, ensuring these timeless patterns are still in use today. The craft of fly tying has evolved, but the principles of design, especially the use of vibrant colours, remain just as relevant for contemporary anglers.
The Role of Colour in Salmon and Steelhead Flies
Certain colours continue to play a significant role in the success of salmon flies.
Bright yellow was a key colour in Victorian fly patterns and remains a staple in modern salmon and trout flies. The yellow flies are particularly effective one or two days after a flood and especially effective in rivers with slightly murky water. Fly: Bulldog # 7/0
The bright red tag has become a timeless feature in salmon and trout flies, frequently used in modern low-water patterns and those patterns designed to be fished near the surface. Often paired with a bright yellow or green wound tag, it creates a striking and highly effective design. Fly: Black Doctor # 2/0
Tinsel: Shimmering threads of gold or silver add just the right amount of sparkle. Often, small amounts of tinsel create a greater impact than larger quantities, offering a glimmer that attracts fish.
Peacock Feathers: The iridescent green peacock herl has long been used in fly patterns due to its ability to add depth and visual attraction, elevating any salmon or trout fly.
Contrasting Colours: The Dual-Coloured Design
Many successful fly designs feature contrasting colours, such as a dual-coloured body with a lighter rear and darker front, as seen in the Rusty Rat. This design, first created by Mr. Joseph Clovis Arseneault in the 1940s, draws inspiration from the classic Jock Scott pattern and remains effective for both salmon and trout anglers today.
The Jungle Cock Feather: Known for its striking contrast and unique wavy structure, this feather was a staple in Victorian flies and continues to be a go-to choice for anglers targeting salmon and trout.
The Cherry on Top: The See-Through Effect
In fly fishing, the see-through quality of a fly can be just as important as its colour. A fly with translucent materials allows light to shine through, creating a more natural, edible appearance to the fish. A solid, dense fly may not trigger the same response. Anglers quickly learn that a fly’s transparency is essential in attracting salmon and trout.
Tube Flies and Transparency
The transparency of tube flies, like the Sunray Shadow, is another key element in modern fly tying. These flies are particularly effective for surface fishing, as the see-through quality catches the light in a way that entices fish. New materials, such as twinkle flash and mylar, enhance this transparency, adding subtle glimmers that increase the fly’s allure.
Golden Rules in Salmon Fly Tying
While there are some established guidelines for selecting colours for salmon flies, flexibility is key. Here are a few principles that experienced anglers follow:
- Weather Conditions Matter: On clear, bright days, lighter, more vibrant flies tend to perform best, while darker flies work better in murky water and low-light conditions.
- Match the Environment: Matching the fly’s colour to the environment can significantly increase your chances. For example, flies that blend with surrounding foliage are effective in those areas, while flies that contrast with grey riverbeds are excellent choices for rivers with that colour.
- Yellow Flies After a Spate: Yellow is particularly effective after a spate, when the water is murky and fish are harder to spot. The bright hue stands out in low-visibility conditions.
- Red Flies Late in the Season: Red flies gain effectiveness as the season progresses, becoming a go-to colour for anglers targeting salmon and sea trout later in the year.
- Black Flies: Black is a versatile and reliable choice. Particularly during twilight or low-light conditions, black flies become more visible, making them a popular choice for anglers in these circumstances.
Yearly Variations in Fly Colours
As seasons change, so too do the most effective fly colours. For example, in 2024, the White Bomber became the go-to fly for salmon, whereas in 2023, dark green Bombers led the pack. These shifts, although difficult to explain, are a common phenomenon among salmon anglers, and part of the intrigue of the sport.
The Red Fly and Changes in Salmon Vision
Conclusion
Understanding the role of colour in salmon flies is key to becoming a successful angler. Whether you’re using vibrant yellows after a flood or experimenting with the subtle transparency of tube flies, the colours and materials you choose can make all the difference in attracting fish. By combining traditional designs with innovative techniques, anglers can continue to perfect their craft, ensuring that each cast is as effective as possible.
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