Weedless and streamlined

Although I have an extensive fly collection, I really only throw just a few favorites. Whenever it’s applicable, anyone who has spent any time on my skiff knows how much I like the clouser. Here, It’s all about the drop and it’s very effective on many of my favorite flats that are a mix of sand and grass. Too, I really enjoy working the mangroves and a lighter fly that is weedless is easier to throw within this habitat. Here, I’ve always enjoyed throwing a Puglisi baitfish pattern tied with a weed guard built out of 20 lb. hard mono. However, there are times when the wind, most of the time, tends to push this more bulky style around. On these days, I’ve really had a lot of success with the old school bend back pattern. Moreover, it’s truly a weedless fly without the weed guard and because it’s more of a streamlined pattern, it’s much easier to throw in the wind. Especially, when accuracy is important. Even better, it’s one of the easiest flies that I know to tie. Typically, I’ll use anywhere from a #4 to a 2/0 size hook and it can be tied in just about any color that you’d like.