This is a modification of an old pattern by Frank Sawyer, creator of the Pheasant Tail nymph. It’s not as popular as the PT but often equally deadly for imitations of small mayflies. Tom has modified the pattern from the English chalk stream version to a heavier pattern for faster and deeper American rivers.
Gray Goose Flashback nymph
Hook: Size 14-18 2XL nymph (standard nymph)
Beads: Two undersized black tungsten beads
Thread: Olive, 8/0
Tails: Gray goose primary fibers
Rib: Fine silver wire
Body: Gray Goose primary feathers
Wing case: Gray goose primary fibers with strip of pearl tinsel