Learn how to tie the Puterbaugh Foam Caddis fly pattern, including step-by-step instructions, a video tutorial, pictures, and much more. Improve your fly-tying skills here.

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The Puterbaugh Caddis was developed by Don Puterbaugh, a long-time guide on the Arkansas River in Colorado. It floats well and presents a great silhouette in the water. It also uses very few materials and is easy to tie.

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Step One

Begin the pattern by forming a thread base below the hook eye to the point.

Step Two

For the body, we’re using tan foam. First, trim a thin section of material from the block, then secure the foam strip over the thread base. Be sure to clip the forward-facing foam before moving on.

Step Three

The Puterbaugh Foam Caddis’ wings consist of bleached deer hair. Stack a small clump of hair, tie it on over the foam with loose wraps, then crank tighter as you pull the hair rearward.

Step Four

Push the deer hair further back by turning the thread in front of the fibers, then trim the forward-facing material.

Step Five

Smooth over the rough hairs with threads, then tie the saddle hackle by the tip in front of the wing.

Step Six

Advance the hackle’s tag end forward with overlapping wraps up to the eye, then secure and clip the forward-facing material.

Step Seven

Complete a whip finish, apply a dose of head cement, and you’re ready for the Mother’s Day Caddis Hatch on the Ark!