Body/wing White bucktail, high-tied at 45 degrees (3-4 clumps)
Topping Peacock herl (8-10 strands)
Eyes (optional) Stick-on 3D eyes (1 pair)
How to tie it
Tie in 4-6 big webby schlappen feathers at the bend, 3-4 shank lengths long, with flash alongside. Schlappen instead of stiff saddles is what makes this fly breathe like a fat, wounded bait.
Work forward in 3-4 stations, high-tying bucktail clumps at a 45-degree angle so each clump flares up and out. The flare bulks the profile into a proper 'grocery run' mouthful without adding weight.
Alternate clumps around the shank to keep the fly deep-bodied top and bottom.
Top the final station with peacock herl running the length of the back.
Form a broad thread head, whip finish, cement, and add eyes if desired.
Aim for 6-8 inches overall with a deep herring silhouette.