Tying the The Tiger Ghost

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By Kenzie Kozera

Originally created by George Maul, the Tiger Ghost has become a favorite of many anglers who pursue Atlantic salmon. Although fished by some anglers across the globe, the fly has grown increasingly popular in the Gaspé region. Providing great visibility and contrast, the Tiger Ghost is frequently a fly of choice during the early season where it is fished in large sizes (ie #3/0- #1.5) with hopes to attract the attention of enormous legendary fish.

Recipe:

Hook: Often tied on Daiichi Alec Jackson Spey Hooks. Any traditional salmon hook (single or double) is suitable.

Tag: Silver oval tinsel

Butt: Green floss.

Body: Tiger Ghost Braid. The original versions were using Gudebrod butt wrap, a material used in rod building (I believe..), however, this appears to be not longer produced and is growing more difficult to obtain.

Under Wing: Yellow fur- choice of buck tail, artic fox, finn racoon, temple, etc

Top Wing: Black fur- similar as above, some tyers prefer different wing materials.

Spey Hackle: Black heron or substitute

Collar: Silver pheasant body feather. *It is worth noting that this is the “modern” interpretation of the patter, as the original was not tied with a collar, but instead with “cheeks” of silver pheasant.

Head: Black thread

Step by step instructions:

Step 1: Choose and secure your hook. Most common choice of hook for many of the flies from the Gaspe region are tied on Daiichi Alec Jackson Spey Hooks (ie 2050, 2051, 2052, 2055). In this instance, I am using a #1.5 Daiichi 2055.

Step 2: Add a silver tag with oval tinsel.

Step 3: Build up a tapered body. This is most efficient using a large diameter thread which is unwound to lay flat.

Step 4: Tie in a green (or chartreuse green) butt.

Step 5: Using Tiger Ghost Braid, wrap your body. This can be challenging at times to ensure no lumps throughout the body, so take your time and don’t be afraid to re-wrap if needed.

*While the original Gudebrod braid is relatively easy to work with, some other comparable braids are a little stiffer due to being waxed. If you find your braid is stiff, you can soak it in hot water, expose it to steam, or hit with a warm hair dryer to help make it more pliable.