How to Tie the White Wolf Dry Fly: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Guide

Fly Tying

Jun 24

The White Wolf is a classic dry fly pattern known for its buoyancy and effectiveness in trout fishing. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of tying a perfect White Wolf, ideal for anglers looking to enhance their fly fishing arsenal.

Materials Needed:

Dry fly hook (size 10)
Sheer 40 denier thread (white or off-white)
White calf tail hair (cleaned and stacked)
Golden badger hackle feather
Light cream dubbing (optional for body)
Fly tying tools (scissors, bobbin, hackle pliers, dubbing needle)

Step-by-Step Tying Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Hook and Thread

Start by securing your dry fly hook in the vise. Attach the tying thread near the hook eye and wrap a foundation layer backward along the shank in an open spiral to provide grip for the wing.

Step 2: Attach the Calf Tail Wing

Stack and clean a bunch of white calf tail hair. The wing length should be about the same length as the hook shank. Tie it in securely with a few tight wraps at the front, lifting the wing to position it upright.

Step 3: Form the Underbody

Using your thread, make several tight wraps backward over the wing base to create a tapered underbody. Trim any excessively long hairs that extend beyond the tail position.

Step 4: Secure the Wing

Flatten the tying thread with clockwise wraps to secure the wing tightly. Use figure-eight wraps around the wing base to lock it in place firmly. Trim any excess thread.

Step 5: Add a Second Layer of Calf Tail

Tie in another bunch of calf tail, matching the length of the first wing. Position and secure it neatly over the first layer, then flatten your thread wraps again for a smooth body base.

Step 6: Trim and Shape the Wing

Lift and separate the wing fibers carefully, then trim off any stray hairs that don’t align with the wing’s shape. Ensure the wing is neat and symmetrical.

Step 7: Tie in the Golden Badger Hackle

Select a golden badger hackle feather and tie it in at the base of the wing. Position the hackle so it stands approximately 90 degrees from the hook shank.

Step 8: Prepare the Hackle and Build the Collar

Trim the hackle tip to avoid interference and prepare to wrap. Use your thread to build a slight taper or collar at the front of the fly, securing the hackle base.

Step 9: Optional – Dub the Body

If desired, apply a light cream dubbing to your thread and wind it forward along the hook shank to create a fuller, more natural-looking body.

Step 10: Wrap the Hackle

Wrap the hackle feather forward around the hook shank, keeping wraps evenly spaced. You can wrap dense or more open depending on your preference. Secure the hackle with tight wraps behind the hook eye.