Rattlesnake Streamer
The Rattlesnake Streamer is a large, articulated fly originated by US tyer and guide Ray Schmidt.
This water was and is renowned for its exceptionally large brown trout. We were successful with these fish two ways. First, during the famous "Hex" hatch, we drummed these monsters up after dark with our big dry offerings.
The second method was not so easy. I met a fellow angler on the river as I floated. We hit it off and he shared with me his secret for his success. Looked like a half chicken and deer tied to a 6X long hook size 2 hook. We nicknamed our copy "The Youngblood Special" after this man, Ed Youngblood.
I always take things to the extreme
I always take things to the extreme, so I increased the fly size and hook length to a Partridge CS 10 size 2. 10X long!
The fly brought fish, no question, but it lacked the ability to hook and keep them thru the fight. After much frustration and observation I discovered that the fish were grabbing the fly by the head and when they were tired of the fight they simply opened their mouth and let go.
The light bulb blinked on. A short shank hook up front and a stinger trailer.
Hmmmm... looks like a Rattlesnake and bites like a Rattlesnake...
The Rattlesnake was born!
Contact
Ray works as a tyer, guide, consultant and much more at Double SS Outdoors where he can be contacted for inquiries on trip planning, guiding, photography and much more.
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Comments
Rattlesnake Articulated Streamer
Great Pattern....Can't wait to try it!