Learn how to tie the Rolled Muddler Minnow fly pattern including step-by-step instructions, a video tutorial, pictures, and much more. Improve your fly tying skills here.

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The Rolled Muddler Minnow is a sparse take on the original Muddler Minnow and is the perfect pattern to imitate small baitfish. The Rolled Muddler has gained popularity as a sea-run pattern in the PNW and Scandinavia but is equally effective in river systems throughout the country and beyond! It is also quick to tie and can be altered to match the predominant bait in your home waters.

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Step One

Begin the pattern by sliding the bead onto the shank down to the eye. Next, lay a thread base down from the bead to the hook’s curve.

Step Two

We are using wood duck feathers for the Rolled Muddler’s tail. Tie on a feather that runs the length of the shank, right above the bend, then advance the thread to the eye. Be sure to clip the forward-facing material off before moving on.

Step Three

The diamond braid material helps develop the pattern’s body section. Tie on a strand below the bead, then run the thread along the length of the material and shank.

Step Four

Finish the body by wrapping the diamond braid up the shank, leaving no gaps between each rotation.

Step Five

The wood duck feathers make up the wings too. Tie a feather around the same size as the tail on top of the shank at an upright position. 

Step Six

For a subtle hint of flash, secure a strand of rootbeer-colored Krystal Flash on the side of the shank nearest you, then double the material over and tie it on the opposite side.

Step Seven

The second part of the wing section uses deer hair fibers—Pinch-wrap roughly 20 pieces above the wood duck wing.

Step Eight

Pinch-wrap another clump of deer hair in front of the first part for the head. It helps to tie the material on loosely and rotate around the shank before clamping down tightly.

Step Nine

The Rolled Muddler is ready to hit the water after securing a whip-finish, followed by trimming down the head.