Minkie Variant

Start by catching the thread a short way back from the eye and wrap it tightly down the shank to make a neat base layer.

This fly is good for both trout and mackerel fishing. It also catches scad and is tied on a long shank hook in around sizes 8 - 12. You can fish it with a steady retrieve, a slow retrieve or even strip it back fairly quickly to try and induce a take. It is a good imitation for a small baitfish and, in olive green, can catch trout when they have been feeding on perch fry.

Slide on a piece of mylar and catch it near to the bend of the hook.

Tie on the thread, just behind the eye of the hook, and use it to lock the minkie strip securely in position.

Finish by tieing off the strip. Trim off any excess and then varnish.

The finished fly is good for both sea fish and trout though it works best when the fur is soaked.