In this week’s “How to Tie” feature, LiFliesMike ties a fantastic baitfish pattern just in time for the spring striped bass migration, the Kinky Muddler.
Learn How to Tie This Fly:
Difficulty: Difficult
For many anglers on the East Coast, spring means happy trout and the emergence of hatches and sustainable insect life. Although this is true, it is only a fraction of the full picture for angling opportunities. Rivers and lakes alike will increase in temperatures, offering more chances at trout and other freshwater species, but one of the most exciting aspects is the spring striped bass migration. These fish will often have a diverse diet of crustaceans, baitfish, and eels, which makes it very important to carry a wide variety of flies at all times. The Kinky Muddler is a baitfish pattern that will attract the attention of opportunistic feeders and should always go with you to the water while striped bass are in town.
Beginning in March, “stripers” will begin their journey north to spawn and feed, and can create some of the most entertaining days on the water. This gives anglers ample time to fill fly boxes and prepare gear during the cold months of winter, but if you’re like me you are probably just starting. Tying flies on larger hooks is always a nice break from smaller technical trout patterns, but they still demand patience and respect like any other to ensure proportions are accurate. You won’t tie as many Kinky Muddlers as you would basic trout flies, but taking the time to perfect the profile will reward you greatly as spring rolls on.
Anglers should come adequately prepared to the water, not only with flies but also with gear. Rods ranging between 8-10wt will each have uses during the season, from targeting flats cruising fish to needing to punch casts into the wind off of a jetty. That being said, a basic 8wt with a floating line and a reel with a fully sealed drag system will accomplish the majority of your striped bass fishing needs. Enjoy longer days, warmer weather, and a future full of hungry striped bass, but don’t forget to bring the Kinky Muddler on your next east coast saltwater adventure.
Ingredients:
- Hook: Gamakatsu SL12S 4/0
- Tail: White Bucktail
- TailPt. 2: Saddle Hackle – White, Light Blue, and Grey
- Flash: Flashabou – Silver and Pearl
- Body: Squimpish Hair Blends – White, Light Blue, Grey, and Purple
- Body Pt. 2: Marabou – White
- Head: Slinky Fiber Blend
- Eyes: 3D Eyes
Now you know how to tie a Kinky Muddler!
Video courtesy of LiFliesMike.
