A pattern that I’ve found useful on the Lackawaxen is one I call the Downwing Hare’s Ear. This fly, which is similar to a Deer Hair Caddis, can be used to imitate a specific caddis on the water or as a general searching pattern. If the fish are taking spent caddis the fly can be made deadly by trimming the hackle off the bottom and fishing it flush in the film. I tie this fly in three different color combinations which will cover most hatches encountered. When tying on the wing, the tips of the deer hair should extend slightly past the bend of the hook. Be sure to leave enough room in front of the wing for the hackle.

Alan Bowers

Fly tied by Alan Bowers