Higa’s S.O.S Variations

Higa's SOS Fly
Higas SOS Varient

The original Higa’s S.O.S. fly pattern has long been a staple in my fly box and has proven itself to be a dynamic fly that seems to work just about everywhere. With many fly patterns I like to make small variations to use up different materials that I have or to meet a need that I have for a particular creek. This variation of Higa’s S.O.S. makes for the perfect dropper here on our AZ creeks and is extremely quick and easy to tie.

Hook – any size caddis style hook

Bead – to match wire

Thread – UTC70

Tail – Gambel’s quail

Wire – size small

Wingcase – Danville 4 strand Rayon

Thorax – Haretron Dubbin to match

Higa's SOS Fly
Higa’s SOS Fly
Higa's SOS Fly
Higa’s SOS Fly
Higa's SOS Fly
Higa’s SOS Fly
Higa's SOS Fly
Higa’s SOS Fly

 

Higa's SOS Fly
Higa’s SOS Fly
Higa's SOS Fly
Higa’s SOS Fly
Higa's SOS Fly
Higa’s SOS Fly
Higa's SOS Fly
Higa’s SOS Fly
Higa's SOS Fly
Higa’s SOS Fly

 

 

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7 Responses to “Higa’s S.O.S Variations”

  1. Flyguide

    In your photo the beads look hugh in comparison to the rest of the fly. Is this by design or is the photo misleading? It looks like it would make a nice chironomid pattern for lake fishing in smaller sizes.
    Thanks

    Reply
    • azwanderings

      Sometimes, I like my beads slightly oversized, but ultimately you’ve got to find a bead that will fit on the hook. For the purpose of the pictures, I am using a large #10 hook and therefore had to bump up my bead size. What I had on hand might be a bit bigger than it needed to be. This pattern is extremely versatile and can be fished in streams or lakes.

      Ben

      Reply
  2. Alan

    OK Ben. Now you’ve got to bag enough Gambel’s quail to send us all some feathers!

    Reply
  3. Alan

    Ben:
    I tied up a dozen in several colors to try on the East Walker next week. I’ll let you know how I do.
    Thanks..looks like a great searching pattern.
    Alan

    Reply
    • azwanderings

      Awesome Alan. Can’t wait to hear how they work for you. If you’re interested in some Gambel’s feathers I have plenty laying around. Shoot me an email and I can send you some. Take care.

      Ben

      Reply
  4. Jim Holmes

    I am just going to guess that using Gambel quail feathers is not a real priority….right?? We have plenty of quail here in Texas, but I don’t think we have any of those near by……Why this particular feather – I know, you had plenty on hand…..:-)

    Reply
    • azwanderings

      Gambel’s feathers are not a requirement. I liked the color on this one. No other reason.

      Ben

      Reply

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