Paradrake Fly Tying Instructions by Charlie Craven

[@JohnShelton-mh9ns]

In all the different patterns I’ve tied over the years not once did I ever feel like, “I’d rather buy it, than tie it” like watching this pattern here today. Just to imagine you were tying this fly at age thirteen… it’s no surprise you evolved into the meticulous master fly tier we all admire today! I anticipate needing a lot of practice on this one for sure. Great job CC, as always, and thanks for sharing.

[@dankochanek8056]

This is one I will just purchase at the shop.

[@sonja9001]

Ok, I’m gonna take the paradrake challenge tonight…..thanks for sharing this ultra cool pattern!

[@davehall2160]

Gorgeous looking fly, Charlie Thanks for the video and Happy New Year

[@marcjalbert4139]

Insane - great tie!! As a relatively new fly tier (5 years), I'm humbled. Again.

[@flytire1]

Charlie, thank you for responding to my request of a paradrake. I tied a few way back in the 1980's for the green drake hatch on the Frying Pan river. I like this version on the curved hook. Norm Frechette

[@adamredden2007]

Wild. I'm about to buy some tools and a vise. Really enjoying your ties, this one is especially interesting. Subscribed... thanks a lot.

[@trendyfly]

Great flashback! Used to do quite well with these on Hex hatches. Accidentally cutting away the moose mane tails was a joy!

[@MerchantMarineGuy]

I tied one as a blue damsel imitation in the late 90’s and never once since

[@DennisNowland]

How good is that, lovely practical finish to the parachute hackle. Thanks for sharing Charlie. All the best from Yorkshire England

[@thomasw_]

Good tie on that tricky fly. I am thinking macrame yarn would work well for the wing too. i liked your choice of hook.

[@huntingmissouri5420]

Good tie! Wow. Thanks for sharing

[@Michael-hg6ky]

That is a beauty Charlie!

[@tinoyb9294]

Loved the West Bank Anglers shop back in the day. Jay Buchner?

[@lunkerjunkie]

two thumbs up 👍👍

[@kennethsanders963]

Nano thread is so awesome .I do this method for all my Hex flies Charlie. As Charlie is wrapping back to the end of the tail ,you see he is using moderate pressure on the wraps . This gives more floatation to the fly and doesn't cut the deer hair in the process. I like to invert( eye down-tail up and the post at right angle with my thread hanging down) my fly in the vice before wrapping the hackle .I fine I have more control during my wipe finish at the end.

[@cachi-7878]

Man! That’s a bitch to tie! Probably among the tougher ones you tie. Great pattern and nice job, Charlie.

[@phillmartin6196]

This is some tie

[@mar83161]

I remember tying a few of these back in the day... can't say I ever got very good at it cause they're a little fiddly. p.s. I f you'd've left that 4th tail no self-respecting trout would've taken it.🤠

[@michaelterry1147]

Great work. Way too techinical for this old man.