Hey there, friends! If you're all about reeling in some big catches and adding some extra flair to your fly-fishing game, then you're in for a treat. I'm Ryan from Mad River Outfitters, and today, I'm about to let you in on a little secret – the 2-minute mop fly.
As someone who's spent countless hours at the vise, crafting flies, I'm excited to show you how to whip up this funky fly that's been raising eyebrows and reeling in fish like there's no tomorrow.
But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about materials. Here's what you'll need: a trusty scud hook, size 8 (I've got the U202 on hand), a bead that matches in 3/16, mop chenille in your preferred color (today, I'm using light gray), and a touch of UV brown ice dub. And don't forget your secret weapon – a bit of superglue or Zap-A-Gap to keep everything secure.
Now, you might be wondering, what in the world is a mop fly? Well, it’s a fly that resembles something you might have snipped from your bathroom rug, but trust me, it's far more enticing to fish than it may look to you. This unconventional marvel can imitate a plethora of aquatic insects – from grub to crane fly larva to caddis. It's a versatile choice that's bound to tempt hungry fish, especially those on the lookout for a juicy bug-sized snack.
Alright, let's get to the fun part – tying the 2-minute mop fly. Don't worry if you're left-handed like me; this fly is so easy to craft that it practically ties itself. Secure your hook in the vise and slide on that bead – remember, small hole first. Then, wrap the hook shank with a matching thread and prep the mop material. A touch of Zappa Gap will give it that snug fit, and after a few wraps, it's mop time. Don't stress over perfection; this fly is all about that casual charm.
Wrap the mop around the hook shank, a couple of wraps to hold it in place, and trim the excess. No need for elaborate artistry here. Time for the thorax – grab some ice dub, double it onto your thread, and wrap it down. Work your way to the bead, secure it with a half hitch, and snip off the excess. Just like that, you've just whipped up a mop fly. The easiest fly to tie in the world!
So, whether you're an avid fly-tyer or just dipping your toes into the world of fishing, give the mop fly a shot. Tie up a bunch in various colors – it's all about the experiment.
If you're not feeling the crafty vibes, don't fret. You can snag some ready-made mop flies without breaking the bank right from Mad River Outfitters. Remember, this fly is your ticket to some exciting catches. If you want to see it all in action, check out the YouTube video we made here.
