How to Tie the Simple Sedge Pupa – Step-by-Step Fly Tying Guide

Fly Tying

Aug 21

The Simple Sedge Pupa is a highly effective fly pattern for both stillwater lochs and rivers, particularly in the warm evenings of summer when sedge hatches are in full swing.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Start the Thread Base
Begin with a yellow Uni 8/0 thread and lay a smooth thread base along the hook shank of a Kamasan B420 or equivalent curved hook.

Step 2: Tie in the Wing Case
Select 8–10 strands of natural pheasant tail and tie them in from mid-shank to the bend, so the thicker ends land near the bend. This will eventually form your wing case.

Step 3: Add Ribbing
Tie in a length of small copper wire on your side of the hook. You can substitute gold or red wire for variation.

Step 4: Form the Abdomen with Dubbing
Dub the abdomen using Sunburst Seal Fur (or a similar synthetic in bright amber/orange). Build a thick, tapered body—slightly chunky at the rear third to mimic the true pupa profile.

Step 5: Pull Over the Wing Case
Bring the pheasant tail fibers over the top of the dubbed abdomen and loosely secure them with two turns of thread.

Step 6: Rib the Body
Wrap the copper wire forward in evenly spaced turns to secure the wing case. Use light pressure initially, tightening as you reach the front to avoid twisting the fibers.

Step 7: Trim Excess & Clean Up
Trim away any excess pheasant tail and wire. Remove long or loose dubbing fibers if needed.

Step 8: Prepare the Hackle
Select a brown partridge feather (chestnut barred is ideal) and tie it in by the tip. Using hackle pliers, wrap the feather 1–2 times around the hook. Sweep the fibers back as you wrap to avoid crowding the eye.

Step 9: Change Thread (Optional)
Swap to a darker thread like brown or fiery brown to add contrast at the thorax area. This enhances the coloration and richness of the final pattern.

Step 10: Build the Thorax
Dub the thorax with the same darker dubbing, making a compact collar that pushes slightly against the hackle fibers for a flared appearance.

Step 11: Whip Finish & Varnish
Whip finish without building a traditional thread head. Apply a small drop of varnish directly onto the hook eye to lock everything in place.