THE BUZZER

MATERIALS LIST AND TYING INSTRUCTION

Hook.. Drennan Midge, Daiichi 1150, Mustad 80200BR, Orvis 8891, Partridge LO56, Tiemco 2457. Size 10-24

Thread - 8/0 Uni or 6/0 Danvilles, colour to suit hatch. Finish with two coats of clear varnish.

Anal Tufts and Breathers - White or clear poly yarn, just a few filaments.

Abdomen - Two layers of thread.

Rib - Contrasting colour thread, silver wire, flasabou etc.

Thorax - Build up of tying thread, about 6 layers for a #14.

Wing buds. - Small dots of orange T-shirt paint. I use Tulip brand, fluor orange.

Flash - Two strands of flashabou tied in a V sloping back over the throrax, the length of the thorax.

ADDITIONAL NOTES FROM PAUL SLANEY

This is my basic pattern for the classic black buzzer pupa (chironomid pupa). Designed to sink quickly without additional weight the buzzer cuts through the surface film well. The finish of two coats of varnish adds considerably to its attraction by providing the sheen so obvious on the natural as well as adding a tough durable finish to the fly.

The floss over the thorax is a recent addition to the pattern attempting to imitate any gases present in the ascending pupa. Although I have not fished this variation enough to tell if its of any real benefit gut feeling and initial success tell me, "Yes!"

It fishes well at all depths and retrieves in the whole spectrum of buzzer colours and sizes. For really deep presentations, I tie this pattern on heavy wire hooks instead of adding lead to keep the correct slim overal profile of the fly. I also use this pattern tied down to size 24 and fished under a sight bead (strike indicator) to tempt skittsh cruising fish in shallow clear water and bright conditions.

Using the wind drift method with this pattern on a long fine tippet and a migrating damsel pattern, or another buzzer on a dropper is one of the most consistant methods I know for our Brecon Beacon Lakes.