In every fly tier’s journey, there are patterns that stand out — creations that merge art, history, and passion into something timeless. The Footer Special Streamer is one of those rare flies. Originally designed by David Footer of Maine, a renowned painter and master fish taxidermist, this fly pays homage to a craftsman whose love for fish and form transcended both the canvas and the vise.
The Legacy of David Footer
Before he was known as a fly designer, David Footer (1919–2017) was celebrated as a pioneer in fish taxidermy and a gifted wildlife artist. His paintings captured the allure of trout and salmon waters throughout New England and Atlantic Canada, and his flies reflected that same deep respect for aquatic life.
The Footer Special embodies his artistic vision — a streamer that glows with vitality and balance, rich in movement and subtle flash. It represents the Maine heritage of streamer design, where function meets beauty, and every feather, hair, and wrap serves a purpose.
Today, tiers and anglers alike continue to reinterpret Footer’s creation — keeping its spirit alive in waters from Labrador to the Miramichi, and beyond.
Modern Revival — The Canadian Connection
While David Footer’s original design was born in Maine’s trout and salmon country, this modern adaptation has been refined for Canada’s fly fishing adventurers.
At DcTackle & Outdoor Supply, we’ve reimagined the Footer Special for those who pursue trophy brook trout, landlocked salmon, and Atlantic salmon in cold, clear waters. The result is a fly that stays true to its roots while taking advantage of today’s premium materials and enhanced durability.
By incorporating Snow Runner, Himalayan Goat, and a UV-cured hot spot, this version combines timeless tradition with modern performance — a true reflection of Footer’s original artistry.
Tying the Footer Special Streamer
Every Footer Special begins with intention — not just tying a fly, but recreating a story.
Hook: Partridge of Redditch Heritage Streamer No. 2–6
Thread: Black 8/0 Semperfli
Hot Spot: UTC 140 Hot Purple with UV Resin finish (opposite the hook point)
Underbody: White Antron yarn — builds a flat, durable foundation for tubing
Body: Gold Mylar Tubing (3–4mm “small”) lightly coated with head cement for strength
Tail: Frayed ends of the Mylar tubing (about a hook gap length)
Throat: Peacock Herl — 4 strands, length to hook point
Under-Throat: Blue Snow Runner — full and flowing
Wing:
- Base: Red Snow Runner
- Over Wing: Yellow Snow Runner
- Veil: Sparse Yellow Himalayan Goat
Flash: Red Krinkle Flash, Rainbow Holo Flashabou, and Pearl highlights
Cheeks: Natural Guinea feathers (about one-third the length of the wing)
Topping: Peacock Eye Herl with Rainbow Holographic Flashabou
Head: Black with 3/32" holographic black/yellow eyes, sealed with UV resin
Pro Tip:
The key to this fly’s signature action lies in the Snow Runner — it builds volume, sheds water efficiently, and maintains a lifelike profile when wet. Keep your goat hair sparse and balanced for a clean, natural movement.
On the Water
Whether you’re swinging through Newfoundland’s deep salmon pools, exploring Ontario’s brook trout rivers, or chasing landlocked salmon in Quebec, the Footer Special delivers consistent action and undeniable appeal.
Its blend of red, yellow, and subtle flash mirrors wounded baitfish — triggering strikes from aggressive trout and salmon. Fished on a sink-tip or intermediate line, it dances through the current with that unmistakable “alive” quality that only great streamers possess.
The Footer Special isn’t just another fly — it’s a bridge between heritage and innovation, connecting today’s anglers to a legacy of craftsmanship and exploration.
Add the Footer Special to Your Fly Box
Own a piece of fly fishing history with a modern twist.
Each Footer Special available at DcTackle & Outdoor Supply is hand-tied with precision, passion, and respect for David Footer’s original design.
