How to Tie: Back Flop Jig Fly Pattern Guide
With: Tactical Fly Fisher
The Back Flop Jig is a small yet highly effective streamer designed for euro nymphing and jigging, offering compactness and significant movement. It’s a perfect addition to your fly box, especially when you need something that sinks quickly and gets right in the fish's face.
Materials Needed:
Size 8 Jig Hook
3.8mm Tungsten Bead (can also use 3.3mm or 4.6mm)
Lead Wire (0.025 inches)
Black Uni Thread (A-Dot)
Pine Squirrel Zonker Strip (Black)
Medium UV Polar Chenille (Black)
Black Soft Hackle (India Hen or Grizzly)
Black UV Ice Dub
Super Glue
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Hook and Add Weight
Start by placing a size 8 jig hook in your vise. Thread on a 3.8mm tungsten bead. Then, secure the lead wire (0.025 inches) to the hook shank with a bit of super glue to help hold it in place. Wrap the lead wire evenly along the shank for added weight.
Tie in the Tail and Body Material
Next, take your wetted Pine Squirrel Zonker Strip and stroke the fibers back. Pinch wrap it onto the hook, making sure half of the fibers face forward and half backward. Then, reinforce the base by wrapping the thread around the tail like a parachute post to reduce fouling.
Add the Body Material
Now, take your medium UV Polar Chenille and pair it with the pine squirrel tail, stroking the fibers back as you go. Use the rotary function on your vise to wrap the chenille forward around the hook shank. Tie off the chenille, leaving some space near the front for additional materials.
Add the Soft Hackle
Tie in a black soft hackle (India hen or grizzly) to add some movement and depth to the fly. Wrap the hackle a couple of turns around the hook, ensuring the fibers point back toward the tail.
Finish with UV Ice Dub and Whip Finish
To clean up the fly, take some black UV Ice Dub and wrap it around the front of the fly. This will smooth out the body and make the fly more durable. Apply a small amount of super glue to the thread, perform a whip finish, and secure the fly.
