Light Cahill
The Light Cahill is a classic dry fly used to imitate pale yellow mayflies that hatch during late spring and early summer. Named for Pennsylvania angler and fly tyer Dan Cahill, the pattern was later refined and popularized through Theodore Gordon’s interpretations. It is especially associated with Eastern trout streams, where Light Cahill hatches can produce excellent evening dry-fly fishing. The fly is typically presented with a drag-free dead drift in sizes 12 through 16, although smaller versions may be useful later in the season. Traditional Catskill-style Light Cahills require careful proportions, particularly when setting the upright wings and selecting hackle that allows the fly to sit properly on the water.
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Recipe
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Hook · Standard Dry Fly Hook
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Thread · Pale yellow or cream tying thread
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Tail · Light Ginger hackle fibers
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Body · Cream fox underfur
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Wing · Lemon woodduck sides
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Hackle · Light ginger