Baitfish · GT · Tuna · Jack · Intermediate · 1 version
Classic Recipe
Hook Extra-strong saltwater, e.g. Gamakatsu SL12S or Owner Aki, 6/0-8/0
Thread White or black GSP 200-denier
Materials
Tail/Body EP Fibers, white plus black, olive or tan back (many clumps)
Flash Pearl or silver Flashabou (10-15 strands)
Eyes Large 3D adhesive eyes (2)
Head cement UV resin or Zap-A-Gap (as needed)
How to tie it
Start GSP thread at the bend of a heavy 6/0-8/0 hook, GTs straighten anything less, and tie in the first clump of white EP fiber top and bottom, extending 4-6 inches rearward.
Continue forward with the EP hi-tie technique: clumps tied above and below the shank every few millimeters, each bound at its mid-point and folded back, building a deep baitfish profile. WHY EP fiber: it holds a big silhouette yet sheds water on the backcast, so a 6-10 inch fly stays castable on a 12-weight.
Add Flashabou strands along the sides halfway up the body.
For the top layers switch to the back color (black, olive or tan over white) to match mullet, milkfish or fusiliers.
Finish with slightly shorter clumps at the head, whip finish with tight GSP wraps and glue thoroughly.
Trim the whole fly to a tapered, deep-bellied baitfish shape and stick on large 3D eyes, locking them with UV resin bridged across the head.