Dry FliesPFD Rusty Spinner

The PFD (Preparation For Death) Rusty Spinner is an excellent representation of a spent mayfly. It's designed to lie flat on the water, mimicking a mayfly that has expended all of its energy and is now an easy meal for a hungry trout. The 'rusty' color makes it a great imitation for a variety of mayfly species.

Season
Spring, Summer
Difficulty
Intermediate
Target Species
Trout
PFD Rusty Spinner - Image source: Orvis
Image source: Orvis

Overview

This spinner uses split microfibetts for tails, a rusty brown dubbed body, and spent wings made of CDC or Antron tied flat. The name “PFD” refers to how well it floats thanks to the dubbing and wing spread—great for evening spinner falls.

Pattern Characteristics

Intermediate Difficulty
Trout
Stillwater
Moving Water
Spring
Summer
Imitates: Mayflies

Materials

Hook: Dai-Riki 305, sizes #14-#18
Thread/Body: 6/0 or 70 Denier, rusty brown
Tails: Mayfly Tails or microfibbets, medium dun
Tail separator: Tag end of tying thread
PFD: Craft foam, white
Wing: New Zealand sheep wool, white

Fishing Tips

Season

This fly is best used in the Spring and Summer months when mayflies are hatching.

Presentation

Cast upstream and allow the fly to float naturally downstream. Use a light tippet to avoid spooking the fish.

When to Use

Use the PFD Rusty Spinner when you see trout feeding on spent mayflies on the surface.

Water Type

This fly can be used in both stillwater and moving water.

Rigging Suggestions

Use a light tippet and a delicate cast to present this fly naturally.

Visibility & Floatation

The white poly yarn wings of the PFD Rusty Spinner make it easy to spot on the water. The fly is designed to lie flat on the water, imitating a spent mayfly.

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