The Putah Creek Riffle Special is one of the few patterns that I’ve come across named after the creek. It is a simple variation of the zebra midge that utilizes an emerger wing under a peacock collar. Although I am unsure about the origin of this pattern I’ve had a lot of luck with it on Putah Creek.
Uni-Thread – 8/0 – Black
Silver Beadhead – size 5/64”
Ultra Wire – Brassie – Silver
Sparkle Emerger Yarn – White
Peacock Herl
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| Step 1 |
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| Step 1 |
Step 1: Thread your beadhead and start your thread directly behind the hook.
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| Step 2 |
Step 2: Tie in the silver wire behind the beadhead and wrap the thread and wire to the middle of the bend of the hook creating an even body.
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| Step 3 |
Step 3: Wrap the thread to the 2/3 of the hook shank and then wrap the silver wire. Secure the wire and cut off the excess.
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| Step 4a |
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| Step 4b |
Step 4ab: Tie in the sparkle emerger yarn and secure. Cut off the excess.
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| Step 5a |
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| Step 5b |
Step 5: Tie in the peacock herl. Make a few wraps and then secure.
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| Step 6 |
Step 6: Whip finished twice and finished!
