Zonker Fly

In its basic grey and silver form, the Zonker makes a fine representation of a range of baitfish species. However, it may be tied in a wide range of colours from black, white and orange to purple, the latter being very effective for various species of pacific salmon.

Whatever the colour, the technique for tying the Zonker is the same, employing a braided Mylar tubing for the body over which is stretched a strip of rabbit fur still on the skin. When cutting the rabbit strip in this way, it is important to use a sharp blade and always cut from the skin side to prevent damaging the hair. Depending on the size of the hook being used, the fur strip should be 3-5mm wide.

Source: The Fly-tying Bible, pp. 230-231.

Materials

  • Hook: Size 2-8 extra 3X longshank
  • Thread: Black
  • Body: Medium diameter braided Mylar tubing
  • Underbody: Self-adhesive foil
  • Hackle: Grizzle cock hackle
  • Wing and Tail: A strip of rabbit fur still on the skin

Alternative

  • Hook: Size 4 – 8 Longshank
  • Thread: Black
  • Body: Pearl Glister Dubbing
  • Wing: Grey rabbit strip
  • Hackle: Grizzle cock hackle

Source: Dipthera.co.uk