The Perdigon fly is a highly effective nymph pattern that has gained popularity among fly fishers around the world. Designed to sink quickly and cut through water, it is particularly useful in fast-flowing streams and rivers.

Its streamlined and durable design mimics a range of aquatic insects, making it a versatile option for targeting various fish species. Learning how to tie a Perdigon fly requires some practice, but with the right materials and techniques, you can create this reliable fly to add to your tackle box.

Materials

To tie a perdigon fly, you will need the following materials:

Fly Tying Vise:

A fly tying vise is an essential tool for any fly tyer. It holds the hook securely in place, allowing you to focus on tying the materials onto it.

Hook:

The first step in tying a perdigon fly is choosing the right hook size and style. The most common hook sizes used for perdigon flies are #14-18, but you can also use larger or smaller hooks depending on your preference.

Thread:

Choose a strong thread that will not break easily when pulled tight. A 6/0 or 8/0 weight thread is suitable for perdigon flies.

Beads:

Beads create weight and add color to your perdigon fly. Use tungsten or brass beads in various sizes and colors to create different patterns.

Wire:

The wire is used to create the ribbing effect on the body of your fly. You can use thin copper, gold, or silver wire for perdigon flies.

Dubbing:

Dubbing is a material used to create the body of the fly. It comes in a variety of natural and synthetic materials in different colors and textures.

8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Tie a Perdigon Fly

Step 1: Secure the Hook 

Place your chosen hook firmly in the jaws of your fly tying vise. Ensure the hook is held securely but without over-tightening, as this could damage the hook. The hook’s shank should be level and positioned horizontally to provide a stable surface for tying the materials onto it. Adjust the vise as needed to ensure a comfortable working angle before proceeding to the next step.

It is also helpful to use a hook with a straight eye rather than an angled one for tying perdigon flies. You can easily find perdigon-specific hooks in fly tying shops or online.

Step 2: Attach the Thread 

Begin by attaching your thread to the hook shank. Hold the thread with one hand while using your other hand to wrap it around the hook shank near the hook eye. Start with a few securing wraps to ensure the thread is firmly in place.

Once secured, wrap the thread evenly down the shank toward the hook bend. This creates a smooth base layer for the materials that will be added in subsequent steps. Be sure to maintain consistent tension while wrapping the thread to avoid slack or loose sections.

Step 3: Add the Bead 

Next, slide a bead onto the hook shank until it reaches the thread base. The bead should sit snugly against the eye of the hook. If using a slotted bead, make sure that the slot is facing up towards the hook eye to allow for easy threading of the wire in later steps.

You can add multiple beads of different colors and sizes to create a more intricate design for your perdigon fly.

Step 4: Secure the Bead 

After adding the bead, use the thread to make a few wraps behind it to secure it in place. Ensure that the thread is tight enough so that the bead does not move or slide along the hook shank. You can also add a drop of super glue for extra security.

But be careful not to apply too much glue, as it can make the fly too heavy and affect its sinking capabilities.

Step 5: Add Wire 

Take a piece of wire and wrap it around the hook shank, securing one end behind the bead. Make sure to leave enough excess wire on both ends for later use. Now, bring the wire thread down towards the bend of the hook in even wraps. This will create a ribbing effect on the body of your perdigon fly.

The wire also adds weight to the fly, helping it sink quickly in the water.

Step 6: Create the Body 

Take a small amount of dubbing and twist it around your thread until you have a thin, tapered line. Begin wrapping the dubbing around the hook shank, starting at the bead and ending just above the hook point. The result should be a smooth and even body with no gaps or bumps.

You can use different dubbing colors to create various patterns on your perdigon fly.

Step 7: Rib the Fly 

Using the wire you previously secured, begin creating the ribbing by wrapping it in evenly spaced turns along the body of the fly. Start near the hook bend and work your way up toward the bead. The spacing between each wrap should be consistent, as this creates a segmented appearance that mimics the natural look of aquatic insects.

Once you reach the bead, secure the wire with a few tight wraps of thread. Finally, trim off any excess wire using a pair of sharp scissors or wire cutters, being careful not to damage the thread or other materials.

Step 8: Finish the Fly 

To finish your perdigon fly, make a few securing wraps of thread behind the bead. Then, use a whip finishing tool to create several tight half-hitch knots around the thread. These knots help secure all the materials in place and give your fly a polished look.

Finally, trim off any excess thread and add a small drop of head cement or super glue to the knot for extra security.

Following these eight simple steps on how to tie a perdigon fly will result in a well-tied perdigon fly that is ready to be added to your tackle box. Experiment with different colors and materials to create unique variations of this effective fly pattern. Happy tying!

Additional Tips

• Use a bobbin holder to hold your thread while tying, as it allows for easier manipulation and tension control. 
• Practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts are not perfect; keep practicing to improve your skills. 
• Watch tutorials or attend fly tying workshops to learn different techniques and styles from experienced fly tyers. 
• Take time to clean and organize your fly tying area before beginning each session, as it helps with efficiency and prevents losing small materials.
• Have fun and be creative! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials and colors to create unique perdigon fly patterns.
• Consider using a thinner thread for delicate flies, as it creates less bulk and allows for more precise wraps.
• Use a bodkin to apply small drops of super glue or head cement, as it allows for better control and prevents excess glue from getting onto other materials.
• Always keep a sharp pair of scissors or wire cutters handy for trimming materials. Dull scissors can damage delicate materials, affecting the overall look of your fly.
• Practice proper fish handling and conservation techniques when using perdigon flies in catch-and-release fishing to minimize harm to the fish and their natural habitat.
• This includes quickly releasing the fish back into the water, handling them gently and with wet hands, and using barbless hooks to make it easier to release the fish.  So, always keep a pair of pliers handy for quickly removing the hook without harming the fish.
• Respect local fishing regulations and obtain proper licenses before using perdigon flies in your fishing activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I Use Perdigon Flies for Other Fish Besides Trout?

A: Yes, perdigon flies can be used to catch a variety of fish species such as grayling, panfish, and smallmouth bass.

Q: Do I Need to Add Weight to My Perdigon Fly?

A: Yes, perdigon flies are designed to sink quickly in the water. Adding beads and wire helps add weight and create a realistic sinking motion.

Q: Can I Use Fluorocarbon Tippet with Perdigon Flies?

A: Yes, fluorocarbon tippet is a great option for perdigon fly fishing as it has low visibility and sinks quickly in the water.

Q: Are There Different Color Options for Beads and Dubbing?

A: Yes, you can find different colors of beads and dubbing materials at most fly tying shops or online. Experiment with different color combinations to create unique patterns for your perdigon flies.

Q: Can I Use a Different Thread Material?

A: While most fly tiers use nylon or polyester thread, you can experiment with other materials such as Kevlar or GSP (gel-spun polyethylene) thread. These threads are stronger and thinner, making them great options for tying small perdigon flies.

Conclusion 

Tying perdigon flies is a rewarding craft that combines creativity and precision to produce effective fishing tools. By following the steps outlined in this guide on how to tie a perdigon fly, you can create flies that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional in various fishing conditions. The perdigon’s streamlined design and weighted body allow it to quickly reach the desired depth, making it an excellent choice for targeting fish in fast-moving or deep waters.

With practice, you can experiment with different colors, materials, and designs to customize your flies and enhance your overall fishing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to fly tying, the perdigon fly is a versatile addition to your tackle box that’s sure to deliver impressive results on the water. Happy fishing!