Death's Magnet
If you want a fly that pisses off trout—and just about anything else with fins—this is the one. The Carnage Attractor? Yeah, it’s basically the neon sign of the fly world. Doesn’t matter if you’re after browns, bass, or some grumpy old pike, this thing’ll get ‘em looking.
Tying it? Super simple. Grab a size 6 to 14 hook—I like a 10 for most stuff—and go nuts with colors. Bright dubbing, maybe some wire for segmentation (or not, whatever), and then just pile on the flash. I’m talking stupid flashy—like, "can see it from space" flashy. Flashabou, Krystal Flash, whatever’s in your junk drawer. The wing’s gotta move, so keep it loose.
Oh, and that parachute hackle? That’s the fluffy bit wrapped around the post. Not just for floatation, though—it kicks up this little shudder when it hits the water, like a bug freaking out. Fish hate that. Or love it? Either way, they eat it.
What’s it imitate? Uh… nothing. Seriously. It’s just chaos with a hook. My theory? Fish see it as something wounded or panicking, and they can’t help themselves. Way more aggressive than some delicate Adams crap.
Where to throw it? Anywhere the water’s got some color or chop. Murky river after rain? Perfect. Windy lake with zero visibility? Even better. I’ve had days on the Madison where this was the only thing they’d touch—just slamming it like it owed ‘em money.
Anyway, tie a few up, toss ‘em where the fish are cranky, and see what happens. Worst case, you’ll at least look cool.