How to Tie the Bendback Fly

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

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A streamer that's simple and can imitate a wide range of baitfish, the Bendback should always be in the box. Whether you're matching saltwater species like spearing and bay anchovies or freshwater baitfish like dace and emerald shiners, the Bendback can imitate them all.

Materials:

We've put together a kit that contains all the materials you need to tie this exact fly pattern.

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• Thread: UNI-Mono
• Hook: Ahrex NS110
• Body: Flat Diamond Braid - Pearl
• Wing: Bucktail (vary color to match intended baitfish)
• Eyes: Hareline 3D Eyes
• Head: UV Resin

Step One:

The first step to the tying process involves putting a bend behind the hook's eye. Be sure to take your time to ensure the curve is minimal.

Step Two:

Before moving onto the body, run the thread along the shank several times to add bulk.

Step Three:

For the body, secure the braid material below the hook's eye and pull the tag end parallel to the shank. Run the thread along the base several times, wrap the braid up to the bend, and snip the excess material.

Step Four:

Moving on to the wing section, clip off a portion of the white bucktail material and tie on top of the bend. The fibers should run slightly longer than the shank, but you can trim them as needed.

Step Five:

Tie three strands each of Flashabou and crystal flash on both sides of the shank and parallel to the bucktail. The added flash helps imitate a baitfish's scales and enhances the Bendback's likeness.

Step Six:

The upper portion of the wing section consists of olive bucktail and should run the same length as the white bucktail. Tie the tip section over the white bucktail and trim any excess material.

Step Seven:

For the final step, tie on the 3D eye and secure them with a whip finish. For added security, squeeze the UV resin over the eyes, smooth it over with a bodkin, then run the light over the resin.