But, when the rivers just keep on roaring at near bank-full, my mind starts to think some pretty crazy thoughts. Just how much visibility do I really need to fish? I wonder if I can catch fish inside the willows when the water is up on my favorite run? I wonder if they are holding in clear tributary mouths? All of these thoughts are the product of a sort of "fisherman's cabin fever." When I can fish often, I hardly even have "creative" thoughts. I just grab my waders, rod and fly box and just go fish.
So in the spirit of creative thinking.... enter "Articu-Royd" . ( I know it probably sounds like some new hemmorhoidal ointment, but it's the best name I could think of...)
They're not only a hit with tyers, but the fish seem to like them too.
Now, as many of my close friends can attest..... I'm no purist. When the chips are down, I've been known to pull some pretty dirty tricks out of my hat to put fish on the beach. But, if I had to chose a fly to fish, I'd chose a classic pattern over most of the newer Intruder-ish stuff any day.
Hopefully this little post will inspire you to add some articulated classics to your arsenal. Happy fishing!