Reeling In the Years: Rediscover 5 Classic Streamers That Defined a Fly Fishing Era

For many, fly fishing is more than just a sport - it's a way of life. For those who have been around the angling block, new gear and techniques may come and go, but the timeless essence of the sport remains true. Sometimes, it's fun to take a step back and remind ourselves of why we fell in love with fly fishing in the first place. Take these old-school streamers, those timeless flies that have been hooking fish and anglers alike for decades. Let’s dive into the nostalgia and take a look at five of these classic streamers, each with its own unique history and charm. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, get ready to reel in some memories and rediscover the magic of fly fishing.

The Platte River Special Streamer

One of the classic flies that has landed trophy trout for decades is the Platte River Special Streamer. The Platte River Special was first tied for the Miracle Mile of the Platte River in Wyoming by Bud Miller in the early 1950's. Said to imitate a small Brown Trout minnow, the Platte River Special has certainly hooked it's fair share of trophy Browns all over the world. The Platte River Special may have been created 70 years ago, but it remains an important fly in the fly fishing world. Its unique coloration, simplicity and effectiveness are what make it such a beloved classic. So the next time you're out on the water, give the Platte River Special Streamer a try and see just why it still holds a special place in the hearts of streamer anglers.

The Little Rainbow Trout Streamer 

One classic streamer that deserves a spot on any fly fishing enthusiast's list is the Little Rainbow Trout Streamer. This fly, one of the "Little Trout Series"(Little Brook, Little Rainbow and Little Brown) has a simple design that makes it perfect for imitating small baitfish. The Little Rainbow Trout Streamer is tied with a colorful bucktail wing, making it an irresistible target for trout lurking in the depths. If you're feeling nostalgic or simply want to try your luck with a tried-and-true classic, give the Little Rainbow Trout Streamer a shot on your next fishing trip. Trust me - it won't disappoint.

The Mickey Finn Streamer

Another must-try streamer for any angler looking to relive the glory days of fly fishing is the Mickey Finn. This old-school streamer came out of Canada in the late 1800's or early 1900's and went through many name changes until the 1930's when it was named the Mickey Finn in honor of the drugged drink that supposedly killed Rudolph Valentino - (long story). Not really known to imitate any specific bait fish, but it is known for catching pretty much any game fish that sees it. The Mickey Finn is tied with a combination of red and yellow bucktail, which gives it a flashy, eye-catching look that's sure to elicit strikes from even the most finicky trout. If you're looking to add a bit of variety to your fly box and want to try your hand at fishing some classic bucktail streamer patterns, the simple but beautiful Mickey Finn is a great place to start. 

The Black Ghost Streamer 

The Black Ghost Streamer is another iconic pattern that has been around for around a century. It was first created by Herbert "Herbie" Welch, in the early 1920s, and has since become a staple in many big trout hunter's vests. The Black Ghost is one of the most effective classic feather wing streamer patterns from the Maine tradition. The fly imitates a variety of baitfish like smelt, making it a versatile pattern that can be used in a range of environments. With its timeless design and proven effectiveness, the Black Ghost Streamer is a must-have pattern for any nostalgic fly angler. 

Grey Ghost Classic Streamer Fly

With its sleek silver and gray wing, the Grey Ghost Streamer is a classic pattern that has been around for about a century. Originally designed by Carrie Stevens, a well-known Maine fly tier back in the 1920s, the Grey Ghost remains a favorite among many streamer anglers today. The Grey Ghost Streamer was designed to imitate smelt baitfish, and its wispy hackle wing gives it a lifelike movement in the water that attracts aggressive strikes from trout and other game fish. Its orange and flashy silver body is also a great representation of the color of many baitfish, making it an effective pattern in a variety of water conditions.


In a world where technology and innovation seem to dominate everything we do, it's refreshing to take a step back and appreciate the beauty of a simpler era in history. Fly fishing is a sport that captures that essence, and these old-school streamers are testaments to its timelessness. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, tying on one of these classic flies will remind you of why you fell in love with the sport in the first place. So next time you're out on the water, take a moment to reflect on the past, enjoy the present, and look forward to the future of fly fishing. As the great  Lefty Kreh wrote, "The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope."