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Bunyan Bugs

Is there any way to identify general age of some old Bunyan Bugs? I found them in a thrift store in Helena, Montana. I know the originator was from Missoula, which is not far from here. I've seen some on auction sites that look very similar. They were in a Umco Model #10 tackle box with a few other flies.

4 comments

4 Comments

roycestearns

Feb 08, 2023

The first Bunyan Bugs appeared in about 1929, and were all hand painted. Later, production models were made with a decal (fine tissue) which was lacquered in place making the paper disappear, leaving just the image.

According to George Grant in his book Montana Trout Flies, the materials are as follow:

"Hook: Size 4, heavy-wire, shank length about 1 1/4", also made with size 2 hook.Cork Body: Just about same length as hook shank. Generally round but slightly flattened on both sides and bottom. Color: Stained or painted deep orange. Segmented markings can be applied with permanent ink pens both top and bottom. Use black or dark brown ink. Wings: Hair from horse mane, blonde or light sandy, inserted into front end of body so that wings will lie flat and spent.

Elliott Olson

Apr 20, 2022

Bunyan Bug - Wikipedia Bunyan Bug - Wikipedia

jason38608

Jan 14, 2022

This is one for American collectors to answer. Can't help you from the UK.

Scott Hirschi

Jan 12, 2022