The Intruder Prop represents a foundational element in Ed Ward’s original Intruder fly pattern, a revolutionary steelhead fly design. This critical component features a distinctive deer hair base, spun in a technique similar to that used in creating a Muddler Minnow head. The deer hair serves a dual structural purpose: it provides a stable platform and creates a propeller-like effect in the water.
The construction begins with the rear station, which incorporates six strands of ostrich herl on each side, creating a pulsating tail section. A natural turkey flat feather serves as the hackle, adding additional movement and profile to the fly. The spun deer hair’s architectural properties are particularly noteworthy, as it maintains its position and supports materials even under high-stress conditions, such as the force of a hair dryer or swift river currents.
This foundation element was integral to Ed Ward’s original pattern specifications and continues to be a crucial component in modern Intruder variations. The prop’s design allows for subsequent building stages, creating the distinctive profile and action that made the Intruder pattern a revolutionary development in steelhead fishing.
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