I like to do 2 different versions of this fly. The fist consists of a holographic silver tinsel body with an oval gold tinsel rib. Then a white zonker strip over top. The second version consists of a holographic gold tinsel body with oval silver tinsel rib and a natural brown zonker strip over top. These are highly productive patterns.
Hook:
Mustad 79580 or equivalent Size 6-10
Thread:
Red
Tail:
None
Wing:
White/Brown Rabbit Zonker Strip (don't use cross cut strips)
Rib:
Medium or Large Oval Silver/Gold Tinsel (make sure it is strong)
Body:
Holographic Silver/Gold Tinsel
Collar:
Natural Deer Hair
Head:
Natural Deer Hair Spun
Instructions:
To attach the rabbit strip properly you should start by tying it in at the forward point where the body starts. Do not separate the hair on the rabbit strip to tie down the thread, tie right over the hair. Once that is done and the excess is cut off you attach the rest of the rabbit strip using your oval tinsel. You basically start wrapping the tinsel like you would for any rib. The only exception is when you try to wrap the tinsel through the rabbit strip. Separate the hair where the tinsel will cross the strip. Lay the rib down over the exposed section of hide where you separated the hair. Make sure it is pulled down tight and adjust the rabbit strip so it is sitting right on top of the hook. Other than that it is just like a regular muddler until you fish it.
The rabbit strip should not jut out too far past the bend in the hook. If it is out to far it will wrap around the hook when cast. As mentioned you should never use a cross cut strip. A cross cut strip has the hair flowing from side to side on the strip. It should flow from end to end to get the right body silhouette. Always make sure your oval silver tinsel is strong. It is what holds down the rabbit strip along the body.
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