How to Tie the Don King Fly Pattern | Fly Tying for Beginners

With: Savage Flies

The Don King fly is a unique take on a classic marabou leech, featuring a Matuka-style wing wrap that adds durability and lifelike movement in the water.

Material List

• Hook: Streamer hook, size 8–2

• Thread: Black

• Ribbing: Brassy-sized copper or gold wire

• Body: Brown goat dubbing (or rabbit/natural substitute)

• Wing: Black marabou

• Head Cement: Optional for durability

Step 1: Secure the Hook and Thread

• Place a size 8–2 streamer hook in the vise.

• Flatten the barb if desired.

• Attach black thread and wrap a smooth thread base to the start of the bend.

Step 2: Attach the Wire Rib

• Use brassy-sized copper or gold wire for the rib.

• Secure the wire at the back of the hook and leave it hanging for later use.

Step 3: Create the Dubbed Body

• Use brown goat dubbing (or substitute with rabbit or another natural dubbing).

• Apply the dubbing in layers, wrapping forward to create a thick, fuzzy body.

• Stop just behind the eye and trim any excess fibers for a neater finish.

Step 4: Prepare and Attach the Marabou Wing

• Select a full tuft of black marabou, ensuring it extends beyond the bend of the hook.

• Trim the marabou at the tie-in point to avoid bulk.

• Secure it with a few thread wraps at the head, but do not finish the head yet.

Step 5: Wrap the Wire Rib Matuka-Style

• Part a small section of marabou and pass the wire through, securing it.

• Repeat this process every few millimeters, carefully wrapping the wire forward while keeping the marabou aligned.

• Secure the wire at the head, helicopter off the excess, and smooth out any rough edges with thread wraps.

Step 6: Build the Head and Finish the Fly

• Wrap a smooth, tapered thread head.

• Whip finish and apply a drop of head cement for durability.

• Trim any stray fibers and admire your Don King fly—ready to hit the water!