Royal Coachman

The Royal Coachman is an attractor fly, not a direct imitation. Its red floss band and peacock herl body resemble no specific insect but suggest a variety of things—like terrestrials, spent mayflies, or caddis adults—and entice strikes from curious or opportunistic trout.

History:
The Royal Coachman was created in the 1870s by John Haily as a flashy variation of the traditional Coachman. Its brilliant contrast and durability made it one of the most iconic American fly patterns ever tied. It later spawned numerous offshoots (Wulff, Trude, parachute, etc.).