Coho Crazy

If you are a fly fisher in the Pacific Northwest, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, or Canada, Coho is probably on your radar. We have a record return here in the local area, and our current weather pattern is conducive to success in the coming week. If you're going to try for Coho, this is your chance!

A few years back, I was trying to develop a more modern Coho fly that would be easy and quick to tie but also fish effectively, sinking fast with a lot of movement and riding hook point up. I knew a jig hook would be the best choice, especially a heavy wire of a larger size. The Aqua flies heavy wire jig would be the perfect choice. Matched up with the pink or orange double pupil eye in medium or large, you’d have a fast sinking fly. Of course, I will use rabbit for the tail, as it has maximum movement and comes in many colors. Make the body out of polar chenille for some bulk, but it also is synthetic, so it doesn’t absorb water, and the perfect fly is born.  

This fly works well and can be tied in many color combinations. Chartreuse for chums, pink, pink and purple for Coho, black for trout, or any other combo you like.

if you’re looking for a versatile fly that is easy to tie, and has a lot of movement give this a try.

Hook: Heavy Jig Hook Sz 1 or 1/0
Eyes: Medium or Large Double Pupil Lead Eyes
Thread: Red Danville 140
Tail: FL Pink Rabbit Strip
Flash: Two Strands Pearl Krystal Flash
Body: Fuchsia UV Polar Chenille
Collar: Purple Schlappen