BWO Half Back Emerger

This simple pattern was developed by Mike Lawson, of Henry’s Fork Angler’s in Last Chance Idaho, to fish the prolific olive hatches on the Railroad Ranch section of that river.  Since baetis mayflies are widespread this fly this fly should be universally effective.  As with all emergers it is at its best during heavy hatches or on ultra-selective fish.

When tying, do not make the trailing shuck too thick.  The pheasant tail fiber abdomen is reenforced with the rib to increase durability and only covers the rear 1/3 of the hook shank.  The deer hair represents the emerging wings and should be tied so that it extends down the sides of the thorax leaving only the bottom uncovered.  Dub over the forward tie down spot of the deer hair to complete the thorax.

Hook : Dry fly; #14 – #20

Shuck : Brown zelon

Rib : Fine red copper wire

Abdomen : Pheasant tail fibers

Wings : Dun deer hair

Thorax : Olive dubbing

Alan Bowers

Fly tied by Alan Bowers