Learn/Fly Box/Hairwing/Black Dose
Black Dose
Hairwing

Black Dose

Canadian Atlantic salmon classic
SalmonMid-depth

A dark, sombre Canadian Atlantic salmon fly — black body, blue-black hackle, brown wing — that has been taking Maritime salmon since the nineteenth century. On the Miramichi, Restigouche, and their tributaries it remains a respected autumn choice when fish are in a sullen, non-aggressive mood.

Fish this when

Autumn on the Canadian Maritime rivers when fish are running late and the water is cooling. In low, clear conditions when brighter flies are being refused.

Why it works

Dark patterns with minimal flash can provoke takes from fish that have been shown everything bright in the box. The Black Dose has a quiet authority that works on stale, pressured salmon.

Naturals it imitates
general attractor — salmon fly
Typical zone & fishable range
usually
Surface & waking
Shallow
Mid-depth
Deep
Setup sensitivity: medium
Hook range#2–10
Quick facts
Tying difficulty
Advanced
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