How to Tie Double Hook Flies

Articulated flies use a combination of two hooks to build a single pattern. The technique is common for streamer patterns, but may be used for any pattern that requires excessive motion. Tying the fly pattern is often a long process because you must tie and combine two separate flies. Making the connection is a simple process that requires one minute of time and few materials. Although the two flies are connected, they act as separate entities in the water and do not follow a uniform swimming motion.

Things You'll Need

  • Vise
  • Trailing hook
  • Lead hook
  • 3/0 thread
  • 30 pound backing
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the trailing hook in the fly tying vise. The trailing hook is typically the smaller of the two hooks. Tie the initial fly on the trailing hook using the materials as designated by your recipe.

    • 2

      Remove the tailing hook from the vise and insert the lead hook in the vise. Start the thread at the hook bend and wrap it to the hook eye.

    • 3

      Cut a two-foot section of 30-pound backing from a spool. Hold the backing on the hook shank with one end at the eye and the other hanging off the hook bend. Wrap the thread from the eye to the bend, covering the backing with each turn.

    • 4

      Feed the free end of the backing through the eye of the trailing hook. Pull the backing until the eye meets the bend on the lead hook. Hold the free end of the backing on the hook shank and wrap the thread from the bend to the eye. Cover the backing with each turn of thread.

    • 5

      Cut the excess backing free from the hook. Apply a thin layer of instant glue to the hook shank. The glue will add strength and durability to the jointed connection. Complete the fly by tying in the materials on the lead hook according to your recipe.