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Thunder and Lightning

The Thunder and Lightning is a classic Atlantic salmon fly credited to Scottish fly dresser James Wright and dating to the mid-nineteenth century. It is normally fished on a controlled swing across and downstream and has remained popular in both traditional feather-wing and more practical hair-wing versions. The pattern is particularly useful in dark, overcast conditions and in tea-stained or slightly colored water, where its contrasting orange and black elements create a strong presence. Thunder and Lightnings can be tied in a wide range of sizes, with larger flies used in high or cold water and smaller, sparsely dressed versions favored in lower, clearer conditions. Maintaining a smooth body and keeping the wing properly aligned without overdressing the fly are the main considerations when tying it.

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