Pattern Description

Charlie Craven of Charlie's Fly Box.

I started tying this pattern several years ago, and named it after my youngest son. I came up with it to fill the need for a flashier-than-average stonefly nymph, for use in off-color water. It has worked well for this application since its inception, but I never dreamed how versatile this pattern would turn out to be. While this pattern seems VERY bright, I find that this extra flash can be a great attractor. Initially, I found myself trying to tone down the flash, but with a bit of use under its belt, the Jack Flash has become a go-to fly for many uses.

This is really a pretty simple fly to tie. I especially like the S.L.F. Master Class dubbing because it is coarse and translucent, but not too long. I find it works well for flies of all sizes where you want a shaggy, picked out look, without too much bulk. With a few modifications (changing the colors and hook styles as needed), I have used this pattern to imitate everything from small mayfly nymphs to medium sized stoneflies and Callibaetis nymphs in stillwaters.

The Jack Flash is a great point fly in a two-fly rig, or as a Copper John substitute in a Hopper/Copper/Dropper rig. The weight keeps both flies down and the flash really pulls the fish in.

Another secret method to fishing this fly is to tie it on an eighteen-inch, 2X dropper behind a streamer. Cast the streamer into the bank and strip a few times, then let the whole rig dead drift for a few feet. Often, fish that are attracted by the streamer (but turn off at the last second) will turn around and grab the Jack. Try this technique this fall and see what happens for you.

All materials used here are available for mail order from Charlies Fly Box
http://www.charliesflyboxinc.com