Many years ago I adapted Ken Abrames’ R.L.S. Herr Blue bucktail into a large nine-feather flatwing. I was pleased with the result, and that fly produced many large bass for me. But the recent acquisition of a ginger saddle brought out the tinkerer in me. And since I never did a three feather flatwing-bucktail version of the Herr Blue, I went to work.
If you’re unfamiliar with the concept, a flatwing/bucktail hybrid combines the seductive motion and swimming action of a flatwing (using three contrasting saddles) and the color-blending deliciousness and adding-the-illusion-of-mass properties of bucktail. I originally started tying these not only as a way to conserve precious flatwing saddles, but also to use bucktail in place of saddle colors I did not have. The template is Razzle Dazzle, with all strands of flash extending at least 3/4″ beyond the longest feather. (See the Rock Island and Crazy Menhaden three-feather flatwings.) Bonus: they’re easy to cast for their size, and they swim beautifully on the greased line swing.
Obviously this fly is intended to imitate a river herring or alewife; it could also easily pass for other larger baitfish like menhaden. I tied two, one 8″ and the other 10″. So without further ado, I present the Herr Blue three-feather flawing. DIA. (Danke In Advance.)
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A closer look at the blend of nine different colors of bucktail.
currentseams.com 
Steve I don’t fish the salt but I do admire the flies you tie for that purpose. They are so crisp and so detailed. In smaller versions I’m sure they would have beneficial fresh water applications.
Well done.
Thanks, old friend. You could totally use these on a smaller scale for trout. (I have. They work.)
Just curious, what’s your preferred hook for trout flatwings? Thx
Dave
Depends on the size of the fly and the fish I’m after. I’ve fished a 4″ long on a EC253 1/0, but I’m not going to be hooking 12″ trout on that. You could also try something smaller, like the Gamakatsu B10S in a 1 or 2 or 4.
Thx, appreciate the input.
Beautiful flattie! Thx for sharing. Video soon? 🙂 Dave
Thanks, Dave.The will is there, but right now the time isn’t. Fishing, writing, and will the hardworking ever end?
Steve, another absolutely informative and valuable post on your part. I am always ready for another bit of fly tying to keep my apatite satisfied. Thanks.
My pleasure, Ray. Thank you for your loyal support.
Beautiful flies. Always love a good flatwing. Would love to see a post or video that covers the greased line swing. I have read so much about it, but would love to see it performed/explained.
-Sam
Noted, Sam, and I appreciate the feedback. In the meantime, have you read this? https://currentseams.com/2015/01/19/salmon-fishing-for-striped-bass/