Sparkling Leadeye Minnow

Article and Photos By: Chris Windram

[ Tying Instructions ]

Anyone who has fished the Clouser Deep Minnow knows that this is one of the most effective flies ever developed for inshore saltwater fly fishing. Originally designed for smallmouth bass on the Susquehanna River by Bob Clouser, the Clouser Deep Minnow has become the pattern of choice for many saltwater fly fishers. Tied in chartreuse and white, this is an indispensable pattern for striped bass. Bonefish will readily take a properly presented Clouser tied in a size 2 or 4. Tied in a variety of colors and sizes, this type of fly is a great pattern to use for a wide range of saltwater situations.

Although the Clouser Deep Minnow is an effective and widely used pattern, many anglers have encountered problems while fishing the fly. The fact that this pattern is usually heavily weighted with lead eyes can make it difficult to cast, especially for a novice. In addition, the lead eyes may present a problem because they have a tendency to break loose from their moorings, and begin to rotate around the hook shank at the place they were tied in, or worse yet, they break off completely.

One solution to these problems is to use eyes made from brass or pewter. This can make the fly easier to cast and more durable. However, using lighter materials for the eyes detracts from the basic design of the fly; this fly is designed to be heavy in order to sink down to the level of the fish. I believe that I have found a better solution to make this fly more durable, and this is to coat the spaces around the lead eyes with E-Z Shape Sparkle Body. Coating the head of this type of fly with E-Z Shape Sparkle Body helps keep the lead eyes in their place, and greatly enhances the overall appearance of the fly.

I encourage you to tie your favorite version of this pattern using E-Z Shape Sparkle Body. I think that you will find that you can make a more attractive fly by using 'Sparkle Body, and you may even catch a few more fish, too!

Here are my instructions for tying the Sparkling Leadeye Minnow.