Flies Of Yesteryear: Black Seal

This pattern is very representative of a period when a lot flies were tied with the thought of simple and impressionistic in mind.  As you can clearly see the Black Seal is impressionistic of a stonefly or possibly a hellgrammite.  These simple patterns were typically heavily weighted to reach the bottom quickly in swift riffles.  Therefore an accurate anatomical dressing was not required.

The recipe can be found in Randall Kaufmann's early published work on nymphs however, it doesn't list any helpful historical data such as originator or time period.

Tying notes:

(1) The original pattern was tied on tied on large(r) Mustad 3906B or 9671 hooks and heavily weighted (typically sizes 6 to 10).  I've have substituted the hook with a Daiichi 1260, Size 12
(2)  The fly pictured is tied loosely with seal.  If you are unable to locate good seal I would recommend angora goat or SLF in it's place.  These are excellent substitutions.
(3)  Reminiscent of this style is cutting the top of the hackle once wound and secured.

Materials (As pictured)

Hook: Daiich 1260, sizes 6-12, weighted
Tail:  Goose biots tied in a "V," dyed black
Ribbing:  Gold wire
Body:  Seal, dyed black and loosely dubbed.
Hackle:  Hen, dyed black and clipped on top.