Red Variant

Red Variant

The Red Variant — short for House & Lot Variant — is a classic attractor dry fly pattern known for its simplicity, visibility, and consistent effectiveness. Featuring a solid black body, white tail, and traditional Wulff-style wings, this fly creates a bold silhouette that trout readily recognize in a variety of water conditions.

Originally popularized as a versatile searching pattern, the Red Variant has earned a reputation as a dependable producer for surface-feeding trout. Its high-floating profile and excellent visibility make it especially effective in riffles, pocket water, and broken currents where attractor patterns shine.

A personal favorite of President Eisenhower, who reportedly fished this pattern almost exclusively, the Red Variant remains a timeless addition to any dry fly angler’s fly box.

Key Features

• Classic attractor dry fly pattern
• Black body with white tail and Wulff-style wings
• High visibility and buoyant presentation
• Excellent searching pattern for trout
• Effective in rivers, streams, and rough water

Imitates

General attractor insects and adult mayflies

Available Sizes

#12 – #18