Loon’s Matt Callies ties some great flies, and he’s really good at making it look easy. I’ve got a saltwater trip coming up, so I’ve been watching the Loon fly-tying series for some baitfish pattern ideas, and I haven’t been disappointed.
Above, Matt ties the Basic Deceiver, a super-simple pattern that predatory fish absolutely love. But, as you’ll see, Matt is adamant that this pattern isn’t just for saltwater angling. Lots of fish prey on smaller fish, snd the Basic Deceiver is a great pattern for everything from trout to bass and, in smaller sizes, panfish and the like.
Give it a whirl and see if you’re not inspired to tie up a dozen or so.
— Chris Hunt