In this week’s “How to Tie” video feature, Cheech from Fly Fish Food ties a new pattern for trout that will produce on some of the toughest days, the Mop Sculpin.
Learn About This Fly:
Difficulty: Easy
There is no doubt that some of the most controversial patterns in fly fishing are some of the most effective. From squirmy worms to eggs and mop flies, some may question their definition of a “fly”, but none should question their results. On some of the slowest fishing days, these grease patterns will often be the savior. Joining this list enters the Mop Sculpin, a jig pattern that offers the profile of a sculpin and greasy nature of a mop fly.
This pattern can be easily mastered by tyers of any level, from novice to expert. After tying a few Mop Sculpins, there is no doubt that you’ll be able to close your eyes on the vise. In terms of sculpin, you can vary the colors of this pattern to match the stream bottom, just as they will do for camouflage. Simple flies are some that can be modified with ease and should be as needed to effectively trick the trout in your waters.
Whether swung, suspended under a bobber, or in a tight line nymph rig, this pattern has everything that trout adore. During those slow days where fish aren’t cooperating, fishing this fly in an aggressive manner might just bring out their predatory side. Enjoy the Mop Sculpin both on the water and the vise, and bring more confidence with you on your next outing!
Ingredients:
- Hook: Fulling Mill 5125 Jig Force Short Barbless Hook – 10
- Hook (Alternate): Umpqua XC400BL-BN – 10
- Bead: Firehole Stones Speckled Slotted Tungsten Beads – 4.5mm (3/16″) – Olive Drab
- Bead (Alternate): Hareline Mottled Tactical Slotted Tungsten Beads – 3/16″ (4.6mm) – Olive
- Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread – 6/0 – Medium Olive
- Body/Tail: FNF Slush Jelly Fritz – Pellet
- Body/Tail (Alternate 1): UV Mottled Galaxy Mop Chenille – Olive Brown
- Body/Tail (Alternate 2): Small Flexi Squishenille UV – Olive #263
- Flash: Ice Dub – Red
- Collar: Whiting Bugger Hackle Patch – Grizzly Dyed Golden Olive
Now you know how to tie the Mop Sculpin!
Video and ingredients courtesy of Fly Fish Food.
