Ken Baldwin explores the practicality of the Classic Salmon Fly in fly fishing. While these flies are beautifully crafted and often seen as decorative items, there’s skepticism about their functionality in catching fish. However, despite its unconventional appearance to fish, Baldwin has witnessed the Classic Salmon Fly successfully catch fish on multiple occasions.
  

Key Points: 

1. The Classic Salmon Fly, known for its beauty and intricate design, often raises questions about its efficacy in actual fishing.
2. Despite being an avid fly fisherman and reader, Baldwin rarely encountered mentions of the Classic Salmon Fly’s success in literature or practice.
3. Comparatively, the Classic Salmon Fly might seem as unappetizing as a Sea Slug to a freshwater fish due to its exotic look.
4. Unlike other flies that mimic lifelike movements in water, the Classic Salmon Fly lacks this trait.
5. Despite its aesthetics and lack of natural movement, Baldwin personally witnessed fish being caught using the Classic Salmon Fly three times.

Source: https://www.mensjournal.com/pursuits/the-endless-season/fly-fishing-the-classic-salmon-fly-for-trout