Red Tag (artificial fly)

The Red Tag is a classic and widely used artificial fly pattern, primarily used for trout fishing. It's considered an attractor pattern, meaning it isn't designed to imitate any specific insect, but rather to provoke a strike from the fish due to its combination of color and general form.

The fly is typically constructed with a peacock herl body, a bright red tag at the rear (hence the name), and a palmered hackle, usually brown or ginger. The tail is sometimes present, constructed of golden pheasant tippets.

The effectiveness of the Red Tag is often attributed to the bright red tag stimulating a fish's aggression, while the peacock herl creates a natural-looking body. The palmered hackle provides movement in the water, further attracting attention.

The Red Tag is a versatile fly that can be fished in a variety of water conditions. It is commonly used as a dry fly, but it can also be fished wet or as a dropper fly. Its simplicity and effectiveness have made it a staple in many anglers' fly boxes.