How to tie the Improved X Caddis with Umpqua Signature tyer Craig Mathews

[@jaymcgann6637]

When caddis are on, this is the best fly I've ever used. I've never tried it with the underwing or rib. My favorite dubbing is fox squirrel belly mixed with antron. I've never needed another color. Size 16 seems to work for 18's and 14's.

[@schmoonkie]

Thanks Craig. I'll be tying a bunch of these for my next ( 2021 ) Summer trip to the Madison. I'll add the ingredients list below. Please correct me if I'm wrong. Hook: TMC 2488, sizes 12-18 Thread: 8/0 UNI in Tan, or Rusty Dun Shuck: Crinkled Caddis Amber Zelon or Caddis Gold Zelon Rib: Single strand of Pearl Chrystal Flash Body: Zelon Dubbing ( Hydropsyche Tan Zelon or Black to imitate Glossosoma or Brachycentrus Olive for Mothers Day Caddis ) Underwing: White Zelon ( to imitate the gas bubble that carries the pupa to the surface ) Wing: Darker Deer Hair Head: Hair's Mask Dubbing or Hydropsyche Tan Zelon Dubbing Zelon is available in various colors here: Zelon dubbing: www.blueribbonflies.com/zelon-dubbing.html Crinkled Zelon: www.blueribbonflies.com/crinkled-zelon.html