Fly Tying Tutorial: Jigged CDC Hothead Pheasant Tail

Fly Tying

Nov 25

Today we’re diving into a killer pattern that’ll make trout and other gamefish think twice—meet the Jigged CDC Hothead Pheasant Tail. This little guy is perfect for Euro rigs, under an indicator, or even as a stillwater bug. With pre-spawn activity and eggs in the water, that vibrant hot head is sure to spark curiosity—and a few strikes! Whether you’re chasing trout in streams or ponds, this fly is compact, flashy, and irresistible.

✂️ Step-by-Step Fly Tying Guide

Hook & Bead:
- Start with a Fulling Mill 5045 jig hook (size 12 recommended).
- Slide on a 3.8 mm MFC slotted tungsten bead.
Thread Base:
- Start black UTC 70 thread just behind the bead.
- Wrap back to hook barb, then forward to bead, creating a smooth thread base.
Ribbing:
- Tie in a small copper UTC wire behind the bead for later counter-wrapping.
Tail:
- Select 5–6 pheasant tail fibers. Line tips and attach to hook shank.
- Wrap forward gently and secure with thread. Trim excess.
Body:
- Use remaining pheasant tail fibers to wrap forward to just behind the bead.
- Counter-wrap copper wire over the body for durability. Trim excess wire.
Flashback:
- Tie in a large opal tinsel (Hairline brand) along the top of the hook shank.
- Wrap forward and secure.
Thorax:
- Tie in a couple of peacock herl fibers. Wrap forward carefully; peacock is brittle.
- Fold the tinsel flashback over the top and secure. Trim excess.
Dubbing Loop & Collar:
- Create a small dubbing loop.
- Insert dark dun CDC feather into loop. Wrap forward, palmering CDC back toward bead.
- Capture loop and secure with thread wraps. Trim tag ends.
Finishing Touches:
- Whip finish and trim thread.
- Push CDC fibers forward and trim longer ones for a neat appearance.
- Optionally trim bottom CDC fibers to expose flashback.