Redside Minnow, Tandem Arctic Fox Trolling Fly #2
The Lahontan Redside Minnow is the primary baitfish from Lake Tahoe and the Truckee River drainage into Nevada. The color scheme is an olive back, black stripe and white belly. There are red highlights under the scales. During spawning season the fish takes on a red hue. Small streams that these fish use for spawning can seem red when these fish move up from the lakes.
The black stripe along the side is a distinguishing mark of dace, another baitfish common in North America.
This fly is tied with a pair of #2 Gamakatsu plated hooks suitable for saltwater use. Rinse well in freshwater after use in the salt to maintain their durability.
Additional Info
These flies are sold with a Wiggle Fin Action Disc. There are two main variables for “Tuning” the way these flies swim. #1 is boat speed, I have fished these flies from 1 mph up through 3+ mph. #2 is the distance you set the disc above the fly ( 0” through 16”). “Slide Lock Beads” are a good choice for setting the disc because they adjust readily. This allows the angler to quickly check various distances for any given speed. Some anglers have tied in swivels with a bead above to fix the disc up the line.
These flies are tied with Arctic Fox fur. The reason I chose this material is first the texture. This fur is soft but tough. Fur is meant to protect an animal where as marabou is a feather which is dainty and meant for flight. I needed a tough material so that I could tie these on salt water hooks and have a fly that will stand up. Another reason is that the fur is white and can be dyed “hot “ colors. Give these flies a swim and I am sure you will be pleased with their action and durability.