Step by Step Golden Stone

So, there are certain patterns that are timeless, The Adams, The Elk Hair Caddis, The Clouser Minnow, the Deceiver Etc. Certain patterns or designs just always seem to catch fish. In today's world of new and improved this, or bigger and better that, it is nice to see the old classics getting some love. Why is it that so often the simplest patterns are so effective? 
I was first introduced to this fly (or a version of this fly) while I was managing the fly shop a few years ago. We have a blue ribbon Smallmouth river 5 minutes from the shop and this pattern, through the summer was a go-to for big Smallies. I have used this for Smallmouth, Trout, Largemouth, Bluegill, Carp, the list goes on and on. Names and variations include the Girdle Bug, M's Rubber Legs, Turd Stone, and Legs for days. I saw this Step-By Step on Instagram posted by our friend Travis Toller @toller _208. Travis is affiliated with @jimmysflyshop as well as @clackacraftdriftboats. This is what I call an American Express pattern "Don't leave home without it" (if you are under 40 you won't understand that last reference). Great picture of a great pattern. Thanks Travis, appreciate allowing me to share. 

Start with your favorite 4Xl hook and wrap several wraps of .020 lead. This is one of the great new hooks from Firehole outdoors. BTW the Norvise makes QUICK work of those lead wraps.

Tie in the Life Flex for the tails and spiral up and over the lead to secure it to the hook. This would be a good time for some Zap-A-Gap...

Here the Veragated Chenille has been tied in at the tail and the thread has been used to form the taper of the body.

Three sets of legs tied evenly up the upper half of the body.

If you have ever tied this pattern this is the absolute coolest picture. This is a great way to manage the legs as you wrap the Chenille up the body.

Now, work the chenille up and in between each leg.

Tie off at the eye of the hook.

Add another set of Life Flex for the antennae...

And there you have it, the perfect, simple Stonefly pattern.

This thing just flat catches fish!

Again, thank you Travis for allowing me to share this on the site. Check out Travis on his Instagram page. he is a good follow and posts some really cool pictures. Till next time...

​                                                                                                                          Tight Lines - Tim