The Grey Ghost

The Grey Ghost fly, one of Carrie G. Stevens' most famous streamer patterns, originated in the Rangeley Lakes region of Maine. Designed to imitate the smelt fish, a primary food source for large predatory fish in the area, the Grey Ghost quickly became a staple in the fly fishing world. First tied in the early 1920s, this fly's elegant design and lifelike movement in the water made it a favorite among anglers targeting trout, salmon, and other species that feed on small baitfish. The Grey Ghost's success lies in its ability to mimic the smelt’s natural color and swimming action, which has earned it a place as one of the most enduring and iconic streamer patterns in fly fishing history.

The Grey Ghost works well with both slow and fast retrieves, depending on the fish's activity level. In colder water or when fish are sluggish, use a slow, steady retrieve to let the fly imitate a struggling or injured smelt. When fish are more active, try a faster retrieve to provoke a reaction strike.