The Mess,a Gary LaFontaine pattern,is probably the ugliest fly in my box. It is the kind of fly that makes a fly fisherman ashamed when tied to the tippet. The fly really is a mess,an impressionistic mayfly pattern. It is created to mimic a nymph trapped in the surface film. I have given it very few chances over the years,but I plan to give it a new and fair chance this season. Aesthetics are no issue on this one…

1. Tie in the tail,use just a few fibers. Then cut a small strip of large cell foam and tie it down.

2. Dub the body in any color to suit the natural. Then tie down the foam strip. Make sure you leave enough room for the head and the hackle.

3. Form the head using the same dubbing as the body.

4. Tie in a few fibers of mallard to give the impression of a wing.

5. Next,choose a oversized hackle and make about three turns. Secure the thread and cut…The Mess is ready to go!