Bodkin / Patterns

Semper Fleye

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

Classic Recipe

  • Hook Gamakatsu SL12S or Tiemco 600SP, 1/0-3/0
  • Thread White GSP 100 or flat waxed

Materials

  • Tail/body Long white or chartreuse saddle hackles (6-8 feathers)
  • Flash Pearl/silver flashabou (8-12 strands)
  • Collar Reverse-tied bucktail (1-2 stations)
  • Eyes (optional) Stick-on eyes (1 pair)

How to tie it

  1. At the bend, tie in 6-8 long saddle hackles arranged around the shank, curving outward, 3-4 shank lengths long. Mounted at the bend they can't wrap under the hook and foul.
  2. Add generous Flashabou around the feathers, slightly shorter than the tips.
  3. Move forward and add one or two stations of reverse-tied bucktail: tie the clump tips-forward, then fold it back and lock it so it flares into a veiling collar around the feathers.
  4. Distribute the bucktail evenly around the shank so the fly is round in cross-section, not winged.
  5. Whip finish a neat head, cement, and stick on eyes if desired.

Tying videos

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