Graphic Caddis

Materials

How to Tie the Graphic Caddis

1. 1

   Step 1

   Secure the Tiemco TMC 2488 hook (size 14-18) in the vise. Start the UNI Thread 8/0 (White) behind the hook eye and wrap a smooth thread base to the hook bend, covering the shank evenly.

   This curved, short-shank hook mimics the natural shape of a caddis pupa.

2. 2

   Step 2

   Cut a 1.5-inch piece of Hareline Micro Tubing (Chartreuse) and tie it in at the hook bend. Wrap the thread forward to the midpoint of the shank, then spiral the chartreuse micro tubing forward in tight, overlapping wraps to form a segmented, translucent body. Stop about one-third of the shank length behind the eye. Secure the tubing with thread wraps and trim the excess.

   Stretch the micro tubing slightly as you wrap to create a tight, segmented body. Avoid overlapping too much to maintain a slim profile.

3. 3

   Step 3

   Select a Hareline India Hen Back (Black) feather. Strip 2-3 fibers and tie them in on one side of the hook, just above the micro tubing body, extending rearward at a slight angle to mimic legs or wing buds. Repeat on the other side for symmetry (total of 4-6 fibers). Secure with thread wraps and trim the excess butts.

   Use sparse India Hen Back fibers to keep the fly delicate. Wetting the fibers slightly can make them easier to handle.

4. 4

   Step 4

   Select 2-3 strands of Hareline Strung Ostrich Herl (Olive) and tie them in where the micro tubing body ends. Wrap the ostrich herl forward in 2-3 tight turns to form a compact, buggy thorax, stopping just behind the hook eye. Secure with thread and trim the excess herl.

   Ostrich herl is fragile — wrap carefully and secure tightly to prevent unraveling. Use hackle pliers for control.

5. 5

   Step 5

   Build a small, neat head with the UNI Thread 8/0 (White) over the thorax tie-in point. Whip finish behind the hook eye with 2-3 whips for security and trim the thread. Optionally apply a drop of UV resin or head cement to the thread head for durability.

   Ensure the hook eye remains clear. Gently adjust the India hen fibers to sit naturally, resembling legs or emerging wing buds.