Tweaking the Circus Peanut for Great Lakes Steelhead with Russ Maddin

“Maddin’s desire to create a large-profile fly without providing fish increased leverage via long-shanked hooks. His solution, tethering two shorter-shanked hooks together solved this issue and simultaneously enhanced the fly’s action in the water.”

I’ve looked up to Russ Maddin as a tyer and angler for a long time. His Circus Peanut has been a staple in my box for just about every species I chase. Getting an opportunity to connect with Russ and pick his brain about how he adapts the pattern for his local steelhead was epic to say the least.

Flyfisherman.com - April 2026

Tweaking the Circus Peanut for Great Lakes Steelhead with Russ Maddin

“Maddin’s desire to create a large-profile fly without providing fish increased leverage via long-shanked hooks. His solution, tethering two shorter-shanked hooks together solved this issue and simultaneously enhanced the fly’s action in the water.”

Getting it Done

Silver and Bronze