Fly Design, process of creating an effective pattern

[H Dot Verseman]

Hello- As I've been progressing through this never ending learning curve called fly tying, especially regarding nymphs and streamers (I exclude dries as I really haven't started learning to tie them yet) I sat down to tie Fly X, a well known, "standard", vanilla pattern, and it dawned on me; Why was I tying this pattern?

It dawned on me not that like a brick, but more like a vague bubble somewhere back in my head that I had no definite reason for it, so I stepped back from the vise. Took a 180 and started researching modern streamers, and lures. I came across hundreds of patterns with great details and names, I've always been a fan of Kelly Galloup's streamer lines, so I researched him and his philosophies. It brought me to Ask About Fly Fishing, where I listened to a couple hours of interviews, including those of Aaron Jasper, Galloup, Davy, and John Barr. A very well educated bunch of tiers and fishermen indeed.

Then I came across Galloup tying his Zoo Cougar, and while I knew the fly, I had no idea about the details of the dressing and I thought of another question. How did he come up with this pattern and why? What was his reference for it, and why he chose X,Y,Z details about it.



So, to all the great tiers out there...

What is your process for coming up with original patterns, deviations from "standard" patterns, and things you reference or keep in check when creating them?

[Esopus Guy]

Click my blog and call me. Too much typing for me 8)

[H Dot Verseman]

I actually had your blog as a favorite, and didnt know it was you. I'm off tuesday/wednesday this week, any particular time better than another?

[Esopus Guy]

Either evening is cool...........

[frankm205]

Brandon has a unique ability to sit at the bench and create flies. Best of all he is always out there trying them out. I'm lucky to get to fish with him often so I get to swipe a few ;D