American River Special, Dark
Steelhead & Trout
Hook - Standard wet/nymph hook, size 8-10
Thread - Black.
Ribbing - Heavy black thread
Body - Dubbed with dark brown rabbit fur or yarn
Hackle - Furnace hen hackle tied on as a collar, two turns only, and tied back
Head - Black ostrich herl
American River Special, Light
Steelhead & Trout
Hook - Standard wet/nymph hook, size 8-10
Thread - Black
Ribbing - Heavy black thread
Body - Dubbed with light olive rabbit fur or yarn
Hackle - Natural black hen hackle tied on as a collar, two turns only, and tied back
Head - Black ostrich herl
Joe Shirshac of Sacramento, California, developed both of the above patterns.
In addition to the steelhead population they were intended for, they are effective for resident trout in the American River system and other streams as well.
Fish Flies: The Encyclopedia of the Fly Tier's Art - Terry Hellekson
