EDIT: Unfortunately, Willy passed away following a tragic car accident in 2021. Our hearts go out to his family and our gratitude goes out to his spirt for his generosity and kindness. Willy taught many a tier the tricks of the trade and also donated his time and skills to many veterans who needed time on the river. Thanks Willy.

Willy discovered his passion for fly fishing at the early age of six. Shortly after, he began tying his own flies for trout, salmon steelhead, and shad. Willy found his love of lake fishing early and continued to fish stillwaters, eventually becoming known far and wide for his expertise and knowledge. He fished all over northern California, Idaho, and Montana. From famous blue ribbon trout rivers to high mountain lakes and reservoirs, from farm ponds to the big lakes, Willy guided for over twenty years in Montana and Yellowstone National Park. Willy continued to develop his fly tying skills and is was a signature tyer for Brookside Flies out of Denver, Co. He ran a great outfitting business Willy’s Trout World and on his Facebook Page. He used any number of Echo fly rods to ply his craft, including our spey and switch rods and worked on the design of Airflo fly lines for special presentation on lakes. Spey casting may be a new approach for lake fishermen in the US, but in Europe it is a common practice allowing for long distant casts from the shoreline.

This fly is a great lake pattern.

RECIPE:

  • Hook: 730 Series 4, 6, 8, 10
  • Thread: 3/0 mono cord
  • Bead: Glass or Brass
  • Tail: Scud Back over Krinkle Flash
  • Body: Dubbed Simi Seal
  • Head: Bead

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