FlyFysher
Cockroach
Splayed grizzly tails, a natural collar, and a strong hook for tarpon.
This Blake Davis variation adds rabbit fur to a classic Keys pattern.
- At the vise
- Intermediate
- Common sizes
- #1/0–2/0
At the vise.
Work through the numbered steps in order. Use the written materials and proportions as your guide; select an image for a closer look.
Support the tail
Cover the rear half with thread. Secure sparse brown bucktail at the rear third, angled slightly upward.
Pair the feathers
Mount four approximately three-inch grizzly feathers as two matching, outward-splayed pairs. Cement their bases.
Add flash
Attach four to six flash strands along the tail and trim to feather length.
Wrap rabbit
Leave clearance ahead of the tail bases. Palmer a thin rabbit strip forward three or four turns, sweeping fur rearward.
Hackle and finish
Wind soft grizzly hackle ahead of the rabbit. Cover the remaining front shank with red thread, whip finish, and cement.
On the water.
A natural-colored shrimp-like offering for clear-water tarpon.
Find your Cockroach.
Have this pattern tied for your water.
No versions are listed yet. Choose a tyer and ask about your sizes, colors and materials. The tyer must confirm availability and send an offer.
Recipe references
Original written instructions adapted from the sources below. Materials and methods may vary between versions.
Portrait reference
Pattern dressings vary; use the written recipe for exact materials and proportions.
