Learn Fly Tying for Beginners to Intermediate

The Pheasant Tail Nymph

Today we are going to tie the pheasant tail nymph. This fly can be traced back to Frank Sawyer, river keeper on the Itchen many moons ago. The fly has gone through many derivations since its original form as a size 14 tied with cock pheasant tail fibres and fine copper wire used for trout and grayling.

Its use for stillwater fishing started in the seventies and I recall tying PTNs.(Pheasant Tail Nymph) on long shank hooks as big as 6. The most popular size settled down to a long shank 10 which is what we will show you today.
If you can acquire these tail feathers from shooting friends, or you have to buy them from tackle shops, try to get the centre tail feathers. These have longer fibres and make for easier tying.

The one tied today has a green thorax but I suggest you try orange, red, brown or olive as alternatives. Once you have got the hang of it try downsizing to Long shank 12. If you fish the river try standard wet fly hooks sizes 12 and 14.

Thank you all for your continued support of our site. Our aim is to raise awareness of the pleasure of tying your own flies.

Happy Fishing
Dave Cammiss and the Team.