Activities Meeting – Bruce Strachan Fly Tying

The 2021 MFFC Striper Outing Experience

By Bruce Strachan

I tied Bucktail Deceivers, Surf Candies, Zonkers and Bucktail Clausers, all in sizes 1/0 to 4/0,  for our inaugural MFFC Striper Trip only to find out this Silverside Spearing pattern on a mere #1 or #2  size saltwater hook was my “go-to fly.” Captain Jack Balant, our lead guide, set this choice that caught Blues and Albies for me. Heed the old lessons … follow your guide’s instructions and take note that small flies do catch big fish! This pattern information is the courtesy of Stone River Outfitter.  If you don’t tie flies, call them up and buy a few.

The Long Island fishery for Stripers, Blues and Albies calls for flies that “match the hatch” of a seemingly endless list of prey fish. Depending on the season, you will encounter squid, mullet, silversides, anchovies, herring, worms, etc, etc.  Fly Fisherman’s Guide to Saltwater Prey by Aaron J. Adams, Ph.D. offers detailed descriptions and fly patterns of these and many more saltwater prey.  Flyfisher’s Guide to the Northeast Coast by Phil Shook is an excellent introduction to where, when and how to fish the Connecticut and Rhode Island coast of Long Island Sound.

Enjoy tying this pattern then go East!

Stone River Outfitters EZ Silverside Spearing

(for Northeast Striped Bass, Bonito, False Albacore)

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9f_p8ll2hg

Hook:  Mustad C68S sizes 1/0-02 or similar *

Thread: White Danvilles 140denier Flymaster Plus or similar

Wing: Select white and olive bucktail

Lateral Line: Opal Mirage Flashabou or similar

Body: Natural/medium EZ Body tubing

Eyes: 1/8 inch Silver epoxy eyes

Finish: Liquid Fushion clear urethane glue **

* Preferred size for the 2021 MFFC Striper Outing was #1 or #2 saltwater hooks

** Clear two-part 5 minute or Clear UV based adhesives i.e. Clear Cure Goo

DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE ABOVE PATTERN