Sand Eel
17 Jun 2025
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Sand Eel
A saltwater pattern imitating sand eels and sometimes other baitfish, primarily fished on the bottom.
How it's tied
The Sand Eel Fly is tied using a long shank hook and a combination of materials to create a slender, lifelike profile. The body is typically formed from synthetic fibers, such as EP Fibers or Super Hair, which are tied along the hook shank to create a tapered, translucent body that imitates the natural appearance of sand eels. The wing can be made from the same materials or a mix of natural and synthetic fibers, such as bucktail or flash, adding more movement and attractiveness to the fly. The final touch is a set of eyes, which can be painted, stick-on, or epoxy, giving the fly a more realistic appearance.
What it mimics
The Sand Eel Fly is designed to imitate sand eels, also known as sand lances, which are a common food source for many coastal fish species. Its slender profile, translucent body, and lifelike movement make it an effective and enticing imitation of sand eels as well as other similar baitfish.
Where it's used
The Sand Eel Fly is primarily used in saltwater environments, such as estuaries, surf zones, and coastal areas, where sand eels and other baitfish are abundant and form a significant part of the diet for predatory fish. To fish the Sand Eel Fly effectively, use a variety of retrieves, such as stripping, twitching, or swinging.
Fly tying video for the Sand Eel
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