In this week’s “How to Tie” feature, Michael Passalacqua with Ole Florida Fly Shop ties a shrimp fly that every saltwater angler should carry in their flats box, Pass’s Guide Shrimp.
Learn How to Tie This Fly:
Difficulty: Easy
Despite winter temperatures having a negative impact on a large portion of the country, states such as Florida allow anglers to fish year-round without battling frigid conditions. Florida and other gulf side states offer some of the most entertaining inshore fishing in the United States, propelled by large biodiversity and sight fishing opportunities. Shrimp patterns are a staple in any southern saltwater angler’s arsenal and there are few flies that combine the versatility, durability, and ease of tying as well as Pass’s Guide Shrimp.
Tying saltwater patterns is a fantastic way to begin your tying journey or expand your skillset. Regardless of if you’re prepping for a trip to the Bahamas, stalking Keys bonefish, or simply expanding your saltwater tying skills, this fly offers a perfect blend of technique and fish‑catching confidence. By using brushes, you’ll be able to master and add your own variations to this pattern with ease. Regardless of skill level behind the vise, Pass’s Guide Shrimp will be your friend from start to finish, especially on the water.
Whether you’re sight‑fishing in ankle‑deep water or blind‑casting edges on a windy day, this pattern produces. Depending on the species and conditions, bringing an 8-9wt rod paired with a floating line and a reel with a strong drag will likely be the ticket. Add a few Pass’s Guide Shrimps to your saltwater box, experiment with colors and weights, and get ready for some unforgettable flats fishing.
Ingredients:
- Hook: Gamakatsu SL12S – #2
- Thread: Ultra Thread 140 Denier – Fl Chartreuse
- Bead: Umpqua Jig Bomb Drop Bead – Gold 4mm
- Tail: Extra Select Craft Fur – Chartreuse
- Body 1: EP Foxy Brush 1.5″ Wide – Chartreuse
- Body 2: EP Wooly Critter Brush 0.5″ – Chartreuse
- Weed Guard: Mason Hard Type Nylon – #16
Now you know how to tie Pass’s Guide Shrimp!
Video courtesy of Ole Florida Fly Shop.
