A question I often get asked is what salmon flies to use on the River Spey and River Dee. In fact, you can answer this question as a traditionalist or modern day angler. Without doubt, most of the traditional fly patterns, are still highly effective. Furthermore fishing them is a nod to the tradition of salmon fishing in Scotland.
In September 2023 I was fishing for salmon on the Tulchan “A” beat of the River Spey.
It was a real please and privilege to meet Head Ghillie John Anderson. John retired recently and spent 40 years fine tuning his art on the river Spey. A man at one with nature, the river, and salmon. He has a deeper sense of understanding, than just catching fish.
John also looked after the “Kings Hut”. A small traditional fishing hut, converted to an informal museum on fly tying. Indeed anyone lucky enough to have visited this, were truly rewarded with a unique experience. Possibly never to be replicated. Furthermore the hut was accessible from Tulchan A Beat only by boat. Therefore, to visit here seemed all the more intriguing. Finally and sadly, with Johns retirement, the hut no longer operates as a shrine to Traditional Fly Tying and John is enjoying retirement in Grantown on Spey with his family.
I was fishing Tulchan A Beat with Pete and Emma Tyjas, who run the excellent Fly Culture Podcast . Earlier that morning, Pete had had a brief encounter with a salmon, that sadly didn’t stick. “What fly did it take Pete?” I asked. “A Lady Caroline”. I liked the look of it, and Pete kindly gave me one out of his box. Later that day, I had a salmon on briefly, on the same fly. This on a day when conditions were challenging with low water and bright light.
Later in the main A Beat fishing hut chatting with John, the focus was as you can imagine…Salmon Flies. Naturally I was dialled in and totally focussed to what he had to say. To ignore ghillies with Johns experience, is a foolish move. As we ran through the various traditional Spey Salmon Fly patterns, it occurred to me that I should open my mind and try them on my future trips.
Classic river Spey Salmon Flies
We went through patterns including, The Lord March, Miss Grant, Logie, Jimmy, Countess of Seafield, Jeannie, Vivienne, Glen Lauren, Green Queen, and Lady Caroline. It was mesmerising to see the different patterns, and learn when to fish them. They are simple and timeless patterns.
If you’re interested in tying a Lady Caroline, check out this video on how to tie a Lady Caroline by Davie McPhail.
John still fishes these classic patterns on the Spey and described what size and combination worked at differing water levels and conditions. It was fascinating.
As guides, we are always looking to experiment and embrace new techniques. I think sometimes it pays to look backwards. I can be highly effective to embrace the tried and tested traditional techniques that built folklore and history on these rivers. Flies that have bent rods for generations.
Tying River Spey and Dee traditional Classic salmon Flies
Such was my interest in these classic flies, that we decided to source information and tie some up. Sourcing the materials was problematic, and many of the feathers used in these patterns are now prohibited or from protected species of birds. There are of course synthetic substitutes. Traditionally these flies were tied on heavy long shank single iron hooks, and in keeping with this process, it’s about finding a modern equivalent. We are in the process of sourcing materials, and tying our own Spey Fly patterns. I really do see that these have huge value and fish catching ability.
I asked John what would be a good source to study these fly tying materials, and he pointed us in the direction of two really excellent books.
“Spey Flies, by Bob Veverka” and Spey Flies and Dee Flies, Their history and Construction, by John Shewey.
Modern Salmon flies for the River Spey and River Dee
Firstly, I would say it soften the case that the best fly to fish with, is the one that gives you most confidence. I also believe that its more important to fish the right zie of fly at the correct depth, than the choice of fly pattern itself.
Furthermore, why is it that the parser and less dressed the fly patterns are, the more effective they can be. So if you are going to try the following salmon flies, dont over dress them.
Spring – Best Salmon Flies for the River Spey
Yellow Moose – Bright and Bold for Early Season
To begin with, the Yellow Moose is a striking salmon fly pattern created by Ian Gordon, one of Scotland’s most respected salmon fishing experts. Moreover, this bright and contrasting design is crafted to catch the eye of a spring salmon in all water conditions. Additionally, it’s available on Patriot doubles in sizes 6 and 8, making it a must-have in your spring fly box.
Cohn’s Spring Willie Gunn – A Deep-Water Performer
Equally effective is Cohn’s Spring Willie Gunn, designed by Cohn Odea from the Taymount beat on the River Tay. Furthermore, for best results in spring, fish it deep in faster runs using 1″ to 1½” copper tubes. In addition, it comes in Patriot double sizes 6, 8, 10, and 12 for anglers who prefer dressed doubles.
Spey Stoat Feeler – A Proven Seasonal All-Rounder
In particular, the Spey Stoat Feeler is a versatile spring favourite that will also produce results throughout the season. This black-and-yellow Stoat variant is widely regarded as one of the most dependable patterns on the River Spey. Therefore, it deserves a place in every angler’s fly box, available on Patriot doubles in sizes 8 and 10.
Posh Tosh – A Tweed Classic That Works Anywhere
Finally, the Posh Tosh is a Tweed classic designed by Iain Wilson, now in its refined MK III version. Over the years, Iain has perfected this black-and-yellow masterpiece, which boasts a mirage body and flowing wing that tempt salmon from afar. As a result, it’s become an essential fly for the River Spey, available on tubes, Coneheads, and Patriot doubles.
Summer – Best Salmon Flies for the River Spey
Shitey Whitey Shrimp – Subtle Yet Deadly
To start the summer season, the Shitey Whitey Shrimp is a more understated choice compared to flashier patterns. However, it excels in all water conditions and remains a trusted favourite among Spey ghillies.
Raider Cascade – An Iconic Salmon Catcher
Additionally, the Raider Cascade is one of the most iconic summer double patterns. Designed by Robert White of the Stanley beats on the River Tay, it consistently catches salmon across numerous rivers, making it a non-negotiable choice for summer fishing.
Bobby Dazzler – Low Water Specialist
Similarly, the Bobby Dazzler is a proven performer during medium and low water conditions. Originally shared by John “Bandy” Band, this fly works best with a floating line and a 1.5 clear tip in the warm summer months.
Sunray Shadow Patterns – Exciting Surface Action
Lastly, Sunray Shadow patterns dominate summer fishing on the Spey. Not only do salmon chase, boil, and take them aggressively, but longer versions often trigger the most spectacular strikes. Typically fished with floating lines, they also shine on hover or intermediate lines during bright days.
Autumn – Best Salmon Flies for the River Spey
Ally’s Pearl Shrimp – Early Autumn Favourite
In early autumn, Ally’s Pearl Shrimp remains a top choice from February through September. Additionally, smaller versions are ideal for low water, while larger sizes excel with more flow. Its fresh look often tempts older, cautious salmon.
Gow’s Shrimp – Vibrant and Reliable
Furthermore, Gow’s Shrimp, created by Don Gow from Crieff, is a red-and-orange powerhouse tied on brass loop tubes. It’s particularly effective for fresh autumn fish – and occasionally lands trophy-sized salmon.
Fire Gunn – Designed for Autumn Floods
Another must-have is the Fire Gunn, a late summer and autumn favourite for backend runs and flood conditions. Available in ½”, 1″, and 1½” copper tubes, it also works beautifully on doubles in sizes 6–14.
Executioner – Subtle and Deadly
Finally, the Executioner stands out with its black, red, and silver tones. When fish have seen every flashy fly in your box, this understated pattern can trigger much-needed strikes. Above all, considering the silhouette of your flies at this time of year can make the difference between success and failure.
I would conclude by this. There is something truly magical about fishing with Classic Scottish Fly Patterns. I know these are used throughout the world to great effect. Imagine the inventiveness, at the craft, the history behind each fly pattern. Imagine the green heart and split cane rods, that would have cast these flies, the silk lines, the Tweed, waxed cotton and sound of an old brass reel as a River Spey salmon pulls away on a run. As I write this, I cannot verbalise what it is about this type of angling heritage that is so special. You either get it…or not.
Enjoy your salmon fishing and given them a try. Tight Lines
Author Stewart Collingswood
Fly fishing from a Float tube
