The patterns that have found their way from the contributor, to photographer and into the Editor's fly box ... and stayed there!
No 1 Munro's Killer Nymph
(featured in March/April 1994)
Gary Munro's simple Buzzer (chironomid) pattern has continued to take
buzzer-feeding fish in reservoirs since its inception in 1993, and I understand
is still being used extensively and successfully at Grafham. You can fish
this one singly or as the point of a team of three on a long leader and
figure-of-eight it, either just under the surface or deeper. (Alternatively,
tie lightweight versions and fish them on the droppers). Provided you
stay in touch with the fly, fish it as slowly as possible - across a gentle
ripple is good, but it will work even in a flat calm. I first came across
it at Rutland Water whilst fishing with Gary at Gibbett's Gorse on one
of those days when the wind struggles to produce a steady ripple, and
it constantly changes direction. The occasional rising fish kept a band
of anglers interested, but very little else happened until Gary arrived
with this wee green nymph.
It is very effective come May, when the water begins to warm and fish
are cruising the upper layers, taking a variety of sizes and colours of
buzzers. Try it when the occasional fish shows at the surface, or try
it when the surface boils with rises.
Tying it is simplicity itself - the only unusual material you need is
a cock pheasant centre tail dyed lime green - but it does seem to work
best on a heavier hook. Ensure that the fluorescent green head is not
too big, but still catches the eye.
Green Munro Killer Nymph
Hook: Drennan Traditional Wet, size 12 -16.
Thread: Fluorescent green monocord.
Tail: Cock pheasant centre tail dyed lime green fibres.
Rib: Gold or (preferably) copper wire.
Body: Wound fibres of the dyed pheasant tail.
Head: One strand of natural peacock herl.