Dry FliesTwo Bit Sally
The Two Bit Sally is Charlie Craven's innovative dry fly pattern that features a unique double tungsten bead design for increased visibility and a subtle jigging action on the water. This Yellow Sally stonefly imitation combines Superhair body material with Fluorofiber legs and holographic tinsel casing to create a pattern that sits perfectly in the surface film.
Spring, Summer
Intermediate
Trout
Overview
This Charlie Craven pattern from Charlie's Fly Box showcases an innovative use of tungsten beads on a dry fly. The two small beads add just enough weight to help the pattern sit correctly in the film while also serving as a visible indicator for the angler. The combination of Superhair strands creates a natural translucency while the UV resin finish provides durability and a subtle sheen.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: JB01 or Daiichi 1150, #14-16
Thread: UNI 8/0, yellow
Bead: Tungsten, 2mm or 2.4mm, gold (2 beads)
Tail: Wooster Paint Brush Fiber or Yellow Mayfly Tails
Body: Superhair, 3 yellow chartreuse and 1 red strand
Thorax: UNI 8/0, yellow (thread built up)
Casing: Holographic Tinsel, medium, copper
Legs: Fluorofiber, yellow or shrimp
Glue: Solarez UV Resin, medium
Fishing Tips
Season
Most effective during spring and summer when Yellow Sally stoneflies are active. Peak activity typically occurs from late morning through afternoon.
Presentation
Cast upstream and dead drift through riffles and runs where Yellow Sallies are hatching. The double bead design helps the fly land correctly and sit low in the film like a natural.
When to Use
Select this pattern when Yellow Sally stoneflies are present or when trout are keyed in on small golden-colored insects in the surface film. Also effective as a PMD imitation.
Water Type
Designed for moving water, particularly the riffle-to-run transitions where stoneflies congregate. Fish pocket water and edges of faster current where naturals drift.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on 5X-6X fluorocarbon tippet. The double bead design makes the fly easier to track visually, reducing the need for an indicator.
Visibility & Floatation
The yellow coloration and holographic tinsel casing provide excellent visibility for the angler. The fly rides low in the film with a realistic silhouette that matches emerging or egg-laying Yellow Sallies.
