This simple Bibio variant has been a real winner for me over the last few seasons. I wouldn't go as far as to say it's better than the original, but what I will say is that I don't carry the original any more. Firstly, the substituting of the black (cock) body hackle for furnace hen, still keeps the fly predominantly black, but with an attractive 'halo' of golden brown. Secondly, I subbed the black seal's fur for 'Ant black' (very dark brown) which transmits a very natural looking red/brown light, as opposed to none at all.​

A great fly in good to poor light and waters with a tinge of colour. Always a first choice for Hawthorn or heather fly action, and rarely fails even when members of the Bibio family are nowhere to be seen. Usually a top or tail for me.