The "split back" is a perfect imitation of a sulphur nymph before it hatches, and the split back is a core pattern to always carry on the South Holston and Watauga Rivers. While there are many split back variations, this is one of our favorites due to its simplicity, how quick it is to tie, its durability, and the fact that it just catches fish. We primarily fished these in sizes 16 and 18, but 20s are also good to have on hand. While we fish them primarily in the spring, summer, and early fall, you can run into a sulphur hatch literally any day of the year on the South Holston… so be prepared!
Materials List:
Hook: TMC 3761 – 14-20
Bead: Tungsten Countersunk – Black Nickel
Thread: Uni 8/0 Natural Dun
Body: Ringneck Pheasant Tail – Brown
Thorax: Peacock Herl - Natural
Wing Case: Wapsi Razor Foam – Yellow
Tail: Coq de Leon – Dark Pardo
Alternate Materials:
Hook Alternative: TMC 3769 – 14-18
Bead: Tungsten Countersunk – Copper or Silver
Thread Alternative: Semperfli 12/0 Classic Waxed Brown Olive
Body Alternative: Ringneck Pheasant Tail – Natural, Galloup’s Brown Olive, Yellow, Olive, Red
Thorax Alternative: Peacock Herl – Yellow, Flourescent Orange, Red
Tail Alternative: Coq de Leon (Ginger Pardo, Light Pardo, Badger Dyed Copper Olive)