Baetis Max

Cade M. - December 2023

The Baetis Max is a tried and true pattern that works well all year round and can be fished in many different ways to bring a lot of fish to your net! Our local tailwater fish see tons of flies every single day and I am constantly testing out new patterns to try to trick these very picky fish. I needed a fly that was durable, quick to tie and would have just a little flash and movement to attract attention. CDC for the collar of this fly creates that movement and is also veiled over the tinsel on the body to take away a little bit of shine but also lets it peak through giving this fly a great appearance in the water. Added Ice Dub to the collar really finishes this fly off and creates a pattern that stands out but is not going to spook any fish away. Tied on a super sticky hook this fly catches fish and is definitely one of my go-to's! Tie this one and I'm sure you will be looking to fill your box with 'em and have everyone asking what fly you are using out on the water!

Material List

Hook: Fulling Mill 5125 Jig Force Short Barbless Hook - 20
Hook (Alternate): Umpqua XC210BL-BN Perdi-Jig Hook - 20
Bead: Tactical Tungsten Drop Bead - Silver - 3.0mm
Bead (Alternate): Insta Jig Tungsten Head - 7/64" (2.8mm) - Nickel
Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread - 8/0 - Olive Dun
Thread (Alternate): Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread - 8/0 - Medium Olive
Collar: Fulling Mill CDC Feathers - 1G - Natural Grey
Collar (Alternate): Fulling Mill CDC Feathers - 1G - Light Dun
Dubbing: Ice Dub - Olive Brown
Dubbing (Alternate): Hends Spectra Dubbing - Olive
Rib: Perdigones Pearl Body - Dark Brown (PBF-233)
RIb (Alternate): UNI Mylar Double-Sided Tinsel - Peacock/Orange - Size 16 (1/64")