Chironomid "Rusty" - Stillwater

Chironomid: Rusty

This chironomid is a minimalist imitation that is deadly effective for stillwater fishing.

I generally use the Hanak H 300 BL hook in size 12.

The pattern requires very few materials: Veevus 8/0 black tying thread and Glitter Thread Textreme "Rusty", whose other colours also make excellent variations.

This fly is simple to tie, but take your time: even wraps with tight, touching turns ensure a smooth, clean body with a perfect finish.

- Secure the Hanak H 300 BL hook in the vise.

- Start directly with the Glitter Thread, tying it in a few millimetres behind the eye.

- Wrap the thread in touching turns down to the bend, then work back up to the eye, keeping the wraps even. Make a second down-and-back pass if you want to bulk up the body.

- Tie a whip finish about 2 mm behind the eye and cut the thread.

- Then switch to the black 8/0 thread (or another diameter) to form a neat, compact head.

- Whip finish and cut flush.

- Carefully singe off any stray fibres with a lighter.

- Finish with one or two coats of thin UV resin for a shiny, durable body.