Bassano McGoo Orange UV Head Unweighted
Tasmanian and Victorian stillwater flyfishing guide Christopher Bassano on his McGoo fly…
This fly originates from Ireland and was further developed by Ballarat fly anglers Vern Barby and, to a lesser extent, Craig Coltman. Although originally designed as a damsel fly imitation, it performs well when damselflies are absent.
The slim profile makes it effective when fish are selective, yet it retains strong ‘pulling power’ to attract fish from a distance. It works well on a floating line when fished from the shore alone, but excels in combination with other flies on sinking lines.
I prefer to fish this fly slowly, though it can be used effectively in various conditions.
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Ireland, developed by Vern Barby and Craig Coltman |
| Imitation Type | Damselfly and smelt |
| Weight | Unweighted |
| Best Use | Stillwater fishing, floating and sinking lines |
FAQ
What type of fish does the McGoo Orange UV Head attract?
The McGoo Orange UV Head is primarily designed to imitate damselflies and smelt, and works well when those insects are not present.
Is this fly suitable for use on sinking lines?
Yes, it performs particularly well when used in combination with other flies on sinking lines.
Can the McGoo fly be fished slowly?
Yes, it is recommended to fish this fly slowly for optimal results.
Jonathan Paterson –
Fished this fly on a stillwater in Tasmania during spring. The orange UV head stood out in the water and attracted fish even when no damselflies were visible. Works well in a mix with other flies on a sinking line. Good for selective conditions.
Evan Nolan –
Used it on a floating line from the shore. The slim profile made it easy to cast, and fish took it consistently. A reliable option when targeting smelt-like insects.
Nicola Newman –
Great for both stillwater and mixed presentations. The UV head makes it visible in low light, and the unweighted design allows for smooth drifts. Highly effective in the Victorian rivers.