FLY OF THE MONTH
PHEASANT-TAIL BUZZER
Stuart Foxall recommends a fly that loiters in the trout’s dining room
FLY PHOTOGRAPHY: PETER GATHERCOLE
APRIL AND MAY OFFER SOME OFthe best fly-fishing opportunities of the year on lakes and reservoirs. With rising water temperatures, chironomids (commonly known as buzzers) hatch in large numbers. These hatches entice trout to feed on the surface, with boils and bulges in the water indicating fish targeting the emerging fly, pushing water as they turn to take an easy snack.
I spoke to Stephen Smalley, a Lancashire fly-tyer and popular fixture at shows in the UK. Stephen began fly-fishing more than 30 years ago on rivers in northwest England. His passion led him to enter local competitions and eventually to national and international events, earning a place in the prestigious Ospreys team. Representing England is the highlight of his fishing career.