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Introducing two new hooks to the market, Partridge Catskill Short Shank CLSD and Partridge Catskill Long Shank CSSD. Both bring exciting options for fly fishers targeting Trout and Grayling during the winter months.

The Partridge Catskill Short Shank:

Is it a viable Spider Hook? It's a dry fly right...

The Partridge Catskill Short Shank I believe will quickly earn its reputation as an alternative for tying spider patterns. With its shorter shank, it offers a compact but robust hook profile, making it an ideal alternative for traditional Spider, soft hackles and some wet fly patterns. If you fish Spiders, you'll know that these patterns are known for their sparse, leggy appearance and more often or not, the shank is just a few wraps of thread. Shorter shanks can increase the hookup rate, as the compact design allows for a deeper setting in the fish’s mouth. Especially beneficial when casting a line over fast-moving water, where a split-second reaction would make a world of difference.

For me, as winter rolls in and the fishing focus shifts toward Grayling, the Partridge Catskill Short Shank feels like it will be my hook of choice. Whilst it may be dubbed a dry fly hook, it holds the right characteristics for a great short-shank Spider hook. Grayling can be picky feeders and I have found that small delicate patterns tied onto a short shank hook are favourable both through the winter and into early spring.

The Partridge Catskill Long Shank: Dries, Nymphs, Emergers?

Aside that both hooks have been designed for the Classic Catskill patterns, the Partridge Catskill Long Shank also offers a versatile profile for tying larger patterns, including nymphs, emergers and streamers, all favoured by our main summer quarry, the trout. The 1x longer shank provides extra space for tying bulkier fly patterns, think stonefly nymphs, Hare’s Ear, or even smaller traditional streamers.

I can see a place for these in my fly box, I've been actively removing all barbed hooks over the past few years in favour of barbless patterns. The long shank hook features a beaked needlepoint and the forged bend, all indicators of improved hooking power and strength.

Conclusion

Whether you’re fishing for aggressive trout or picky winter Grayling, both Partridge hook patterns will give you versatility and hooking performance. The short shank, with its compact form, aside from the fact it's designed for Catskill patterns will make a great alternative spider hook for delicate presentations and high hook-up rates. Meanwhile, the long shank's adaptability to larger flies makes it a perfect match for those looking to present bulkier patterns, whether it's the traditional Catskill patterns, Adams style patterns or even nymphs and emergers.