Fly Tier's Bench: Kisha's Sugar Momma

Designed to fish deep holes on Colorado's Dream Stream, Kisha's Atkin's latest creation, the Sugar Momma, blends movement, profile, and innovation. It features a jigged Deceiver-style build with a carefully layered combination of flash, hen feathers, Laser Dub, mallard flank, and a marabou-like Chickabou collar. Fished on a tight line rig, the fly sinks fast, moves naturally, and reflects the designer's family's knack for turning adversity into artistry—making them not just fishy, but truly inspiring. Kisha and her family—husband Chris and sons James and Wes—have become beloved fixtures in the fly-fishing community. Known for their infectious enthusiasm and resilience after losing their home to Hurricane Harvey, they have embraced a nomadic, fishing-focused lifestyle across the U.S. Since picking up fly rods in 2021, the Atkin clan has evolved into a tight-knit team of skilled anglers, with Kisha emerging as a standout fly tyer. The Sugar Momma is set for commercial release by Umpqua Feather Merchants in 2026.