Pheasant Tail

The pheasant tail is as classic and versatile as a fly pattern comes, imitating a wide variety of aquatic nymphs. It was originally developed in the 1950s by English fly tier Frank Sawyer, a riverkeeper on the River Avon. Sawyer designed the Pheasant Tail to be simple, effective, and durable, using natural materials to resemble the slim profile of mayfly nymphs closely. It has since become a staple in fly boxes worldwide and comes in all walks of variations that range from unweighted to heavy tungsten beads, or with the addition of materials to provide flash or additional movement such as CDC or partridge.

Tying a pheasant tail is a great starting point for beginners, as it requires only a few basic materials. The traditional pattern is tied with the fibers of a standard brown peacock feather, but anglers can utilize all types of dyed feathers such as olive, black, tan, and more. These fibers make up the body, tail, and overwing, with the addition of ultra-wire ribbing to add durability and segmentation. The thorax, just behind the bead or hook eye on unweighted flies, is traditionally tied with peacock herl, though dubbing can be used as a substitute. Finally, the fly’s legs are tied with additional fibers of pheasant tail, making it a super simple, cost-efficient but effective pattern to tie. The minimalist design of the pheasant tail means it is a useful pattern in rivers everywhere, making it perhaps the most effective nymph ever made.