Bodkin / Patterns

Flatwing

Baitfish · Striped Bass · Bluefish · False Albacore · Jack · Tarpon · Tuna · Mahi · Intermediate · 1 version

Classic Recipe

  • Hook Saltwater hook, 1/0-2
  • Thread White/olive 3/0

Materials

  • Belly White saddle hackle (4-6, splayed flat)
  • Back Olive or gray saddle hackle (2-4 over white)
  • Topping Peacock herl (6-8 strands)
  • Flash Flashabou (sparse)

How to tie it

  1. Mount hook, lay a thread base.
  2. The key technique: tie in 4-6 white saddle hackle feathers FLAT, horizontally, not upright like a traditional streamer wing. The feathers should splay out to each side, creating a wide, flat baitfish profile.
  3. Tie in 2-4 olive or gray saddle hackle feathers on top, also flat. These create the darker back.
  4. Add 6-8 strands of peacock herl as a topping for dorsal color and iridescence.
  5. Add sparse flash, just a few strands along each side.
  6. Build a neat, smooth head. Whip finish and cement heavily. 3-4 coats. These flies get thrown hard.

Tying videos

← All fly patterns