Hamills Killer Custom-tied Dozen
The Hamills Killer wet fly is a classic New Zealand trout fly pattern, originally developed by Bill Hamill in the 1960s. It’s designed to imitate small fish or aquatic insects, making it highly effective for targeting trout.
Description
The Hamills Killer typically features:
- Tail: Black squirrel tail or similar material.
- Body: Chenille or wool, often in green or red.
- Wing: Feathers, usually mallard dyed green, tied on either side of the hook to create a plump profile.
Fishing Techniques
- Sinking Line: Fish the Hamills Killer on a sinking line near the bottom to imitate dragonfly nymphs or small fish. This technique is particularly effective in stillwaters.
- Strip Retrieve: Use a strip retrieve to mimic the movement of small fish. Vary the speed and length of your strips to find what triggers strikes.
- Dead Drift: In rivers, dead drift the fly through likely holding spots for trout, such as behind rocks or in deeper pools.
Locations
- Lake Edges: Cast near the edges of lakes, especially around weed beds where trout hunt for food.
- River Mouths: Effective at river mouths where trout often feed on small fish and insects.
- Stillwaters: Ideal for fishing in lakes and ponds, particularly in areas with abundant dragonfly nymphs or small fish.