Puglisi Bait Fish Pattern

 

Materials

Hook: Gama SC 15 or hook shank length to imitate the bait fish desired

Thread: white 6/0 or Monofiloment (Black 6/0 for the head)

Tail: EP Fiber, Bait Fish Belly

Body: EP Fiber, Gray

Gills: EP Fiber, Red

Bring a comb, or brush. A toothbrush is ideal.

Hair scissors would be helpful.

Glue to fasten the material and the eyes on the pattern

About the Fly

History of the pattern; where did fly originate; who created it?

Enrico Puglisi invented the EP Fibers some years ago. The fibers can be tied in many different patterns, sizes and colors to imitate the prey that is required.

Skills/Techniques used in the pattern; Similar to working with deer hair, but without spinning. Trimming materials to match the bait fish.

What species of fish do you target with this fly? Any fresh or saltwater species.

The purple or red and black “peanut bunker” is deadly on baby tarpon.

How do you present this fly on the water?

Cast and strip, or swinging is also possible.

Tying Instructions:

Tie in belly of the fly with the fibers 2/3 behind, and fold remaining 1/3 of fibers back around the hook bend and tie down.

Tie in the gills underneath the hook shank

Start to tie in the body on top of the hook shank, as above, and pushing the fibers around the hook shank; and then either fold the remaining fibers back or underneath, and tie in; or flair them around hook shank and tie in.

Continue working forward with smaller and smaller of lengths of fibers to the hook eye. This is necessary so you won’t have to trim so much of the fibers later. Glue down after every other bunch.

Finish head with black or matching thread, if desired.

Comb the fibers back

OPTIONAL: wipe the fibers from hook eye to tail with a piece of fabric softener, like Bounce, and then run the fly under hot water, and then brush the fibers back again. Let dry.

Trim the fly into the shape of the baitfish desired.

Glue in eyes, if desired.
This fly was demonstrated by NIFTy member John Rodelli