Grey Heron

Written by DCarp

Grey Heron

RWFF Grey Heron

• Hook: Blind Eye 1/0 - 4/0
• Thread: Black, 6/0
• Body: 1/3 yellow floss, 2/3 black floss
• Rib: Oval Silver, followed by flat silver
• Hackle: Heron Substitute over front half
• Wing: Bronze Mallard tent
• Collar: Guinea Fowl

HISTORY

Originally the Grey Heron and other similar patterns were developed in the mid-1800’s on the river Spey in Scotland. They were then known as “guide” patterns by the fishermen since they were tied by the guides and were made with what simple and basic materials they could obtain. These were common people who could not afford the fancy materials that made up the flies used by the gentry. In most cases these materials came from farm and domestic animals or pets or animals that were hunted. Tinsels and silk came from old clothing that could not be reused in any other way.