6 x Hothead Chamois – Light Blue – Fish under a bung – Shammy ／ Shammie Flies
# **How to Choose 6 x Hothead Chamois – Light Blue – Fish under a Bung – Shammy / Shammie Flies**
When it comes to fly fishing, having the right flies in your tackle box can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. One of the most effective and versatile patterns for stillwater fishing is the **Hothead Chamois (Shammy/Shammie) Fly**, particularly in the **Light Blue** color variant. In this guide, we’ll break down why these flies are a must-have, how to choose the best ones, and the best techniques for fishing them under a **bung (indicator)**.
## **Why Choose Hothead Chamois Flies?**
The **Hothead Chamois Fly** is a highly effective stillwater pattern designed to imitate a variety of aquatic prey, including **midge pupae, buzzers, and small baitfish**. The key features that make this fly stand out include:
– **Hothead Design** – The bright, contrasting head (often fluorescent orange or yellow) attracts fish from a distance, triggering aggressive takes.
– **Chamois (Shammy) Material** – The soft, absorbent chamois leather creates a subtle pulsing movement in the water, mimicking natural prey.
– **Light Blue Color** – This shade is particularly effective in clear water conditions, resembling emerging insects or small fry.
– **Sinking Properties** – The chamois material absorbs water, allowing the fly to sink slowly, making it perfect for fishing at different depths.
## **How to Choose the Best Hothead Chamois Flies**
When selecting **6 x Hothead Chamois – Light Blue** flies for your fishing trips, consider the following factors:
### **1. Hook Quality & Size**
– Ensure the hooks are **sharp and durable** (preferably chemically sharpened).
– Sizes **12-14** are ideal for most stillwater fishing scenarios.
### **2. Chamois Material**
– High-quality chamois should be **soft yet durable**, allowing for natural movement in the water.
– Avoid overly stiff or synthetic substitutes that don’t absorb water well.
### **3. Hothead Visibility**
– The hothead should be **bright and contrasting**—typically orange or yellow—to draw fish in.
– Ensure the color doesn’t peel off after a few casts.
### **4. Thread & Durability**
– The fly should be **well-tied with strong thread** to withstand multiple fish strikes.
– Check for any loose materials that may unravel.
## **Fishing the Hothead Chamois Under a Bung (Indicator)**
One of the most effective ways to fish the **Hothead Chamois – Light Blue** is **under a bung (fishing float/indicator)**. Here’s how to maximize your success:
### **1. Depth Control**
– Adjust the bung to position the fly in the **strike zone**, typically **2-4 feet deep** in stillwaters.
– If fish are deeper, extend the leader length accordingly.
### **2. Retrieve Technique**
– Use a **slow, intermittent retrieve** with occasional pauses to let the fly sink naturally.
– The chamois material will pulse subtly, mimicking a struggling insect.
### **3. Multiple Fly Setup**
– Consider fishing **two flies**—one Hothead Chamois as the point fly and a smaller nymph on a dropper.
– This increases your chances of enticing fish that may be keying in on different prey.
### **4. Weather & Water Conditions**
– On **bright days**, the **Light Blue** variant works exceptionally well in clear water.
– In **overcast or murky conditions**, a more contrasting color (e.g., black or olive) may be better.
## **Final Thoughts**
The **6 x Hothead Chamois – Light Blue** is a **must-have** for any stillwater angler targeting trout, grayling, or other predatory fish. Its **unique combination of movement, visibility, and natural appearance** makes it deadly when fished under a bung.
For the best results, ensure you purchase **high-quality flies from trusted brands like KyleBooker**, and experiment with different retrieves and depths to find what works best in your local waters.
**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣