StreamersDolly Llama
The Dolly Llama (also known as the Dalai Lama) is an articulated streamer designed specifically for targeting Dolly Varden char in Alaska. Its cone head and dual rabbit strip body create an oversized, undulating profile that triggers aggressive predatory strikes. The stinger hook system improves hookup ratios on short-striking fish while the white belly adds contrast to the olive body.
Summer, Fall
Advanced
Dolly Varden, Trout
Overview
The Dolly Llama (sometimes spelled Dalai Lama) was developed for Alaska's Dolly Varden char, which are aggressive predators that respond well to large, flashy streamers. Like the Gold Creek Special, this pattern uses a stinger hook system with the body hook's bend removed to eliminate leverage-assisted hook escapes. The two-tone rabbit strip construction—olive over white—mimics the natural coloring of juvenile salmon and sculpin, both primary prey for Dolly Varden. Color variations include black/white, pink/white, and chartreuse/white to match different forage species.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Body Hook: 3XL streamer hook, size #2, bend removed
Stinger Hook: Owner #5111, size #4, looped via 20 lb FireLine
Weight: Nickel cone head, 3/8"
Thread: Black Flymaster Plus
Tail: Olive rabbit strip, tied to stinger hook
Body: Olive rabbit strip, bunny style
Belly: White rabbit strip, as long as body
Sides: Saltwater Flashabou, pearl (two per side)
Fishing Tips
Season
Most productive from midsummer through late fall (July–November). Peak effectiveness during and after salmon spawning when Dolly Varden aggressively feed on eggs, flesh, and fry in preparation for winter. Also effective during spring fry outmigration.
Presentation
Use a jigging retrieve with sharp, aggressive strips to activate the rabbit strip body. The cone head creates a nose-down diving action on the strip, followed by a seductive rise and flutter on the pause. Cast across or slightly downstream and work the fly through holding water with varied strip lengths and speeds. Let the fly sink to the bottom between strips.
When to Use
Best when Dolly Varden are actively feeding on larger prey items. Particularly effective during salmon spawning season when char are aggressive and territorial. Works in clear to moderately stained water. Low-light conditions and overcast days often produce the most aggressive strikes.
Water Type
Deep pools, runs, and holding water in salmon rivers where Dolly Varden congregate. Effective behind large boulders, at the heads and tails of pools, and along undercut banks. Works in both large main-stem rivers and medium-sized tributaries throughout Alaska.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a 6–8 weight rod with a sink-tip or full sinking line. Use 0X–2X fluorocarbon tippet, 4–6 feet of leader. The cone head provides significant weight, so a heavier rod helps turn over the bulky fly. Ensure the FireLine stinger loop is tied securely and the stinger hook trails freely behind the body.
Visibility & Floatation
The nickel cone head sinks the fly quickly, reaching the bottom in 4–8 feet of water. The olive/white color scheme provides excellent contrast visible from below and to the side. The pearl Flashabou adds subtle flash along the flanks. Both rabbit strips undulate continuously, creating maximum movement even during slow retrieves or pauses.
