How To Tie: Olsen’s UV Purple Blowtorch

Welcome back to Tying Tuesday, fly junkies!

This week Kyle is back in the hot seat crafting one of his favorite attracter patterns The UV Purple Blowtorch! Designed by competition angler Devin Olsen, the Blowtorch has proven successful across various waters and conditions. Its combination of a hot spot tail, flashy body, and sparse CDC collar makes it a versatile and essential pattern for any fly box. ​This fly is buggy, sexy, and yes…DEADLY! You need to have some of these in your box in a few sizes – no FOMO! Snag these materials and tie you up several so you can get out there and get to trick’in those trout!

Tie it. Fish it. Love it.

Let’s go! 🎣💥

Recipe:

• Hook: Umpqua Perdijig 210BL

• Thread: UTC 70D, Purple

• Tailing Material: #2 Glo Bright Floss FL Pink

• Ribbing: UTC Wire, Silver, Small

• Dubbing: Hareline Ice Dub, Purple

• CDC Collar: Wapsi CDC Feathers

• Hotspot Collar: UTC Ultra Thread 70D, FL Pink

Looking for some Tips & Tricks to fly fishing with Attractor Fly Patterns?

Spring is an excellent time to utilize attractor fly patterns, as trout become more active with rising water temperatures and increased insect activity. Here are some tips and tricks to effectively fish attractor patterns during the spring season.


🎯 1. Use Attractor Flies as Prospecting Tools

When specific hatches are sparse or unpredictable, attractor patterns like the Royal Wulff, Parachute Adams, or Stimulator can be highly effective. These flies don’t imitate a specific insect but are designed to provoke strikes through their visibility and movement. They are particularly useful in fast-moving or pocket waters where trout have less time to inspect prey.


🧶 2. Incorporate Flashy Nymphs in Your Rig

Brightly colored nymphs such as the Rainbow Warrior, Copper John, or Prince Nymph serve as excellent attractors when fished subsurface. These patterns are especially effective in early spring when trout are feeding below the surface on emerging insects. Pairing them with more natural-looking flies in a tandem rig can increase your chances of success.


🧰 3. Employ Dry-Dropper Setups

Combining a buoyant attractor dry fly with a trailing nymph (dry-dropper rig) allows you to cover multiple water columns simultaneously. For instance, using a Stimulator on top with a Pheasant Tail Nymph or Zebra Midge below can entice trout feeding at different depths.


🌦️ 4. Adapt to Weather and Water Conditions

Spring weather can be unpredictable, affecting water clarity and flow. In murky or high-water conditions, opt for larger and more visible attractor patterns. Conversely, in clear water, smaller and more subdued flies may be more effective.


🕒 5. Time Your Fishing for Optimal Activity

Trout are often more active during the warmer parts of the day in spring. Plan your fishing trips around midday when insect activity peaks, increasing the effectiveness of attractor patterns.


🧵 6. Customize Your Attractor Patterns

Don’t hesitate to modify traditional attractor patterns to better suit local conditions. Adding or changing colors, incorporating different materials, or adjusting sizes can make your flies more appealing to trout in specific waters.


By incorporating these strategies, you can enhance your spring fly fishing experience using attractor patterns. Remember to observe local conditions and adjust your techniques accordingly for the best results.


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