Terry Corneau demonstrates how to tie a Grey Ghost fly, a smelt pattern developed by Carrie G. Stevens.
Contents
Grey Ghost Fly Pattern Material List
Hook: Streamer 4 to 10 x long
Thread: black
Tag: flat tinsel, silver
Body: floss, burnt orange
Rib: flat tinsel, silver
Throat: Golden Pheasant Crest (curve up) and white buck tail (calf tail)
Under Wing: Golden Pheasant Crest (curve down) and 5 peacock herl
Wing: 4 dun saddle hackles
Shoulder: Silver Pheasant body feather
Cheek: Jungle Cock or substitute
About the Grey Ghost Fly Pattern
The Gray Ghost fly pattern is a classic and effective fly that has been around for over a century. It was first created by Carrie Stevens in the 1920s and has since become a staple in the fly fishing world. The pattern is known for its versatility and ability to imitate a variety of baitfish, making it a popular choice among anglers.
The Gray Ghost is a streamer fly that is typically tied on a long-shank hook with a wing made of gray bucktail and white hackle tips. The body is made of silver tinsel and the fly is finished off with a red throat and jungle cock eyes. The pattern can be tied in various sizes to imitate different types of baitfish, and it can be fished in a variety of ways, including stripping, swinging, and dead drifting.
Many anglers consider the Gray Ghost to be a must-have fly in their arsenal due to its effectiveness in a variety of fishing situations. Whether fishing for trout, salmon, or bass, the Gray Ghost has proven to be a reliable pattern that consistently produces fish. Its classic design and proven track record make it a fly that every angler should have in their fly box.
History of the Grey Ghost Fly Pattern
The Gray Ghost fly pattern is one of the most popular and widely used streamer patterns in fly fishing. This classic fly was first tied by Carrie G. Stevens in the 1920s. Carrie was a famous fly tyer from Maine who is known for creating some of the most iconic fly patterns of all time.
The Gray Ghost was originally designed to imitate a smelt, a small baitfish that is found in the rivers and streams of New England. The fly is tied with a long, flowing tail made from gray hackle fibers, which gives it a lifelike swimming action in the water. The body of the fly is made from silver tinsel, which reflects light and adds to the fly’s realism.
The Gray Ghost quickly became a favorite among fly fishermen and women, and it has since been adapted to imitate a variety of other baitfish species. Today, the Gray Ghost is considered a classic fly pattern and is used by anglers all over the world to catch a wide range of freshwater and saltwater game fish.
Fishing with the Grey Ghost Fly Pattern
The Gray Ghost fly pattern is a classic streamer fly that has been used for many years to catch various species of fish. The fly is known for its realistic baitfish appearance and its ability to attract fish in both clear and murky waters.
When fishing with the Gray Ghost fly pattern, it is important to use a slow and steady retrieve to mimic the movement of a wounded baitfish. The fly can be fished in a variety of ways, including dead drifting, swinging, and stripping. It is recommended to experiment with different techniques to see what works best for the specific fishing conditions.
The Gray Ghost fly pattern is particularly effective when fishing for trout, salmon, and bass. It can be used in both still and moving water, making it a versatile fly for any angler. The fly is also effective in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
When tying the Gray Ghost fly pattern, it is important to use high-quality materials to ensure the fly’s durability and effectiveness. The fly is typically tied using a range of materials, including bucktail, silver tinsel, and peacock herl. The use of flash materials can also be effective in attracting fish in low-light conditions.
Overall, the Gray Ghost fly pattern is a must-have in any fly fisherman’s arsenal. Its realistic appearance and versatility make it a go-to fly for many anglers. When fishing with the Gray Ghost, it is important to remain patient and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for the specific fishing conditions.
Variations of the Gray Ghost Fly Pattern
The Gray Ghost Fly Pattern is a classic streamer fly that has been used by fly fishermen for decades. Over the years, many variations of the pattern have been developed, each with their own unique characteristics and benefits. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular variations of the Gray Ghost Fly Pattern.
1. Black Ghost
The Black Ghost is a variation of the Gray Ghost that uses black instead of gray for the body and wings. This pattern is particularly effective in low-light conditions and is often used in late evenings or early mornings. The Black Ghost is also a popular choice for fishing in deep pools or fast-moving water.
2. Orange Ghost
The Orange Ghost is another variation of the Gray Ghost that uses orange instead of gray for the body and wings. This pattern is particularly effective in clear water and is often used for trout and salmon fishing. The bright orange color of the fly can attract fish from a distance and is especially effective in sunny weather conditions.
3. Gray Ghost with Jungle Cock
The Gray Ghost with Jungle Cock is a variation of the Gray Ghost that uses jungle cock feathers for the wings instead of gray hackle. This pattern is particularly effective for fishing in clear water and can be used for a variety of species including trout, salmon, and bass. The jungle cock feathers give the fly a more realistic appearance and can be especially effective in calm water conditions.
4. Gray Ghost with Krystal Flash
The Gray Ghost with Krystal Flash is a variation of the Gray Ghost that uses Krystal Flash for the wings instead of gray hackle. This pattern is particularly effective for fishing in murky or stained water and can be used for a variety of species including trout, salmon, and bass. The Krystal Flash gives the fly a more reflective appearance and can be especially effective in low-light conditions.
Overall, the Gray Ghost Fly Pattern and its variations have proven to be effective for a variety of fishing conditions and species. Whether you are fishing in clear water or murky water, in the morning or in the evening, there is likely a variation of the Gray Ghost that will work for you.