In this week’s “How to Tie†video feature, Rupert Harvey ties a baitfish pattern that every angler should keep in their baitfish box no matter the destination, the Fat Boy Mullet.
Learn About This Fly:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Baitfish patterns can be some of the most simple flies to tie or some of the most difficult. Regardless of difficulty, the finished product on the vise is often as rewarding as tying a classic dry fly pattern. There is something special about tying a good looking fly that you know a fish is going to hit with everything it has. You won’t find many predator species sipping their baitfish, and the Fat Boy Mullet is certainly not where they will start.
For tying this pattern itself, Rupert recommends staying sparse, which is a common trend in most tying processes. When working with glue, always take your time because it does not taking much to ruin a good fly. I always support putting your own spin on flies, but when using glue for the first time it is wise to follow the instructions provided by professionals to ensure the Fat Boy Mullet comes out perfect.
Whether chasing fresh or saltwater species, this fly will get the job done. Profile is key to these patterns, so following the video will be important to translating that to your tying. Changing colors will allow you to imitate the baitfish in your area and increase your chances on the water. The Fat Boy Mullet is a pattern that should always be in your baitfish box no matter the species you are chasing.
Ingredients:
- Hook: Gamakatsu SL12 #4/0-#8/0
- Thread: Danville Flat waxed 210 White
- Tail Support: Super hair white
- Tail: SF Blend white and Angel hair
- Head: 0.5 inch pearl braid tubing, SF Blend in White and Olive
- Eyes: 8 mm -12 mm 3D eyes
- Glues: Plasti-dip, gel superglue, and Loon UV thin
Now you know how to tie the Fat Boy Mullet!
Video and ingredients courtesy of Rupert Harvey Flies.
