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Saltwater streamer / Pattern notes

EP Baitfish

Sparse synthetic fiber layers create a broad baitfish silhouette without a heavy body.

At the vise
Intermediate
Common sizes
#2–2/0
From hook to fly

At the vise.

4 steps

Follow this base recipe in order. The materials list specifies one hook size; adjust proportions together when tying another size.

  1. Tail section

    Cover the shank with thread. Above the hook point, tie small olive and white bundles by their middles on top and bottom; fold rearward.

  2. Body

    Add alternating top and bottom bundles toward the eye. Use less material with each pair and keep the belly white.

  3. Head

    Add shorter bundles at the front, fold back, and secure. Whip finish and cement the thread.

  4. Shape

    Comb fibers straight and trim gradually to a tapered baitfish outline. Glue eyes to both sides; keep the hook point clear.

Beyond the bench

On the water.

Match the width and length of local baitfish, then strip with pauses. Scale the dressing to the intended predator.

Tied by independent makers

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Recipe references

Original written instructions adapted from the sources below. Materials and methods may vary between versions.

For the same fly box.

Illustration of a finished Surf Candy flySurf CandySaltwater streamer · #8–2/0Illustration of a finished Seaducer flySeaducerSaltwater streamer · #4–2/0Illustration of a finished Bendback flyBendbackSaltwater streamer · #4–1/0