ASWF.org

This is an update of an older pattern I was experimenting with when I first joined the Atlantic Saltwater Flyrodders(www.aswf.org) early in 1999. It was an attempt to simplify the crafting of a silicone based pattern so they could be cranked out quickly without much fanfare or complexity. I have been using a blend of Angel Hair and Slinky Fibre(Same as Kinky Fibre) for years and had great luck using it as the material of choice for silicone based patterns. In this article I will simply refer to it as “the blend”. There is a set of step-by-step instructions on the web site depicting how to create the blend from scratch.

This pattern makes use of one modified hollow tie to create the foundation for a silicone baitfish. The pattern may be modified further by adding weight or flotation on the shank prior to Step 1. This pattern combines two of Bob Popovics’ innovations – the Simpleclone Fleye and the hollow tie.

Materials:

Thread – Danville’s ultra fine mono
Hook – Varivas 990s size 1
Eyes – epoxy size 3
Material – “the blend”
Silicone – GE Silicone II household glue

Step 1 (see photos Step1a and Step1b)

Secure thread close to the hook eye, then tie in a length of the blend on the bottom of the hook shank. First make two loose wraps and distribute the blend around the bottom half of the shank, then secure with several tighter wraps. Note that all wraps are right at the eye of the hook. A short length of the blend is left to extend just beyond the bend of the hook with the longer length extending forward.

Step 2 (see photo Step2)

Tie in another length of the blend on top of the shank making sure to distribute it completely around the top half of the shank. A short portion of the blend should extend just beyond the bend of the hook with the longer length extending forward.

Step 3 (see photos Step3a, Step3b and Step3c)

Using a push tool, push the blend towards the rear of the hook. Make several wraps just in front of it and whip finish. You should end up with a profile as shown. This completes the only tying step for this pattern.

Step 4 (see photos Step4a, Step4b, and Step4c)

Apply a short length of a twist tie just behind the bend. This will help control the material while the silicone is applied. Apply the silicone by squeezing the tube and rotating the fly at the same time starting at the eye and working to the bend. Make sure you apply a dab just behind the bend on the underside of the fly. Dip your finger(a Popsicle stick may be used instead) in Photo-Flo and smooth the silicone by patting lightly as you work from front to rear. Apply eyes, setting them into the silicone by patting lightly. A light coating of silicone may be applied over the eyes. The completed fly is shown untrimmed.