Bodkin / Patterns

Natural Zonker Skullhead

Streamer · Trout · Smallmouth Bass · Pike · Intermediate · 1 version

Reference Recipe

  • Hook 4XL streamer hook (e.g. TMC 5263), #4-8
  • Thread tan/olive 6/0 (140 denier)

Materials

  • Sculpin skull / helmet Natural case (1 (to hook size))
  • Mylar tubing Pearl/gold mylar tubing (body length)
  • Rabbit zonker strip Natural tan or olive rabbit zonker strip (1 strip)
  • Wire rib Fine copper (1 strand)

How to tie it

  1. Start the thread and tie in a fine wire rib at the bend.
  2. Slip mylar tubing over the shank and bind it down at the bend and again behind the eye for a braided body.
  3. Tie in a rabbit zonker strip at the bend, fur flowing back, with the tail extending about one shank past the bend.
  4. Stroke the strip forward over the top and bind it behind the eye, parting the fur so it lies clean.
  5. Spiral the wire rib forward through the strip in 5-6 turns to lock it, wiggling the wire so it doesn't trap fur; tie off.
  6. Build a small thread base at the eye, slide the sculpin skull on, and lock it with thread wraps plus a drop of superglue.
  7. Whip finish behind the skull and cement.

Tying videos

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