(Clockwise from top left): Bob’s Banger, Bonefish Squimp Borski Bonefish Slider, Flashtail Whistler, Gurgler, Half and Half, Peanut Butter, Seaducer
Fly Fishing

How to tie 8 awesome saltwater flies—that may be even better in freshwater

Scott Gardner·

Exotic and (mostly) easy patterns to expand your fly-fishing horizons

Although designed for ocean fishing, these flies are proven winners on freshwater fish as well

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Flashtail Whistler

  • HOOK: Gamakatsu SC15 or similar, sizes 1/0 to 3/0
  • TAIL: Bucktail 1 to 2 times length of hook; 15 to 30 Flashabou strands, 2 to 4 times length of hook; second layer of bucktail
  • BODY: Palmered marabou, schlappen or EP Craft Fur brush
  • EYE: Large bead chain
  • DIFFICULTY: Easy

I prefer my Flashtail Whistlers considerably stripped down, compared the classic version shown in this In the Riffle video, but it’s still a helpful resource. In particular, I like the bucktail shorter, and the Flashabou longer. I also use a short-shaked hook, which reduces the tail’s tendency to foul around the shank.

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