Anchovy Bunny Baitfish
Hook – Mustad #34011 or salt water hook of preference, size #1/0.
Thread – White.
Tail: Light tan/cream craft fur, over which is a few strands of pear flash-a-boo, over which is a few strands of copper/root beer flash. Length – a
little longer than hook shank.
Body – White crosscut rabbit strip.
Wing: Light tan/cream craft fur, over which is a few strands of copper/root beer flash, over which is some brown flash n’ slinky or synthetic of
choice.
Eyes – Reflective doll eyes applied with Zap-a-dap-a-goo or epoxy.
Some of my most memorable and prized moments wade fishing occurred those times when I was fortunate enough to hook into false albacore or
bonito. To catch these fish from shore requires researching where they are, being prepared with the proper fly, and being very lucky. Many times these fish are feeding on Bay Anchovies that range in size from 1 to 4 inches. This is my favorite pattern for imitating them. It’s very easy to tie, almost foul proof, and extremely durable. Once wet the fly condenses down into an almost perfect bait fish profile. On the attached photo,
the top fly displays the “wet” profile.
Begin by winding your thread from the eye to the bend of the hook. Tie in craft fur at the bend. Over it tie in a few strands of pearl flash-a-boo, over which is a few strands of copper flash material. Tie in white cross cut rabbit strip. Wind forward and tie off, leaving enough room before the eye to tie in your wing. Tie in a wing of craft fur, over which is a few strands of copper flash material, over which is brown flash n’ slinky. Affix eyes with zap-a-dap-a goo or epoxy. Don’t be afraid to modify this pattern to imitate other bait fish.