How to Tie the Gotcha Fly: A Modern Twist on a Bonefish Classic

Fly Tying

May 11

The Gotcha is one of the most iconic and effective bonefish flies ever created, especially for flats fishing in the Bahamas—this step-by-step guide walks you through a durable, updated version using modern materials.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Hook and Thread Base

Begin with a Tiemco 811S size 2 saltwater hook.
Use UTC 140 denier thread in fluorescent pink.
Start the thread just behind the eye and lay a base over the front third of the hook shank.
Leave a long "nose" at the front for the signature extended head.

Step 2: Add the Eyes

Tie in a pair of large silver bead chain eyes using figure-eight (X) wraps.
Alternate directions several times to build a secure thread mound between the eyes.
Apply a drop of head cement to lock the eyes in place.

Step 3: Create the Tail

Use Pearl Flat Diamond Braid.
Tie in one strand just behind the eyes, leaving a long enough front tag to fold back and form a tail.
Wrap back over both strands to the bend, then return the thread to the front.
Trim the tail to about the hook gap length and shred it with a dubbing brush or your fingers for a wispy effect.

Step 4: Wrap the Body

Tie in a new strand of flat diamond braid just in front of the eyes.
Wrap it back to the tail, then forward again, overlapping wraps slightly to form a tapered body.
Cross over and under the eyes and tie off in front.
Secure with another drop of head cement.

Step 5: Optional Flash Wing

Take another piece of flat diamond braid, measure just past the tail, and tie it in at the front.
Fold it back and trim one strand to keep only one shimmering piece.
Brush or fray this piece for a subtle flash effect in the wing.

Step 6: Tie in the Wing

Use tan Polar Fiber or Craft Fur.
Cut a generous clump, remove underfur, and hand-stack it for uniformity.
Tie it in on top of the hook, about 1.5x the shank length.
Trim the butts at an angle to taper them into the thread head.

Step 7: Build the Head

Create a long, smooth thread head with your pink thread.
Use multiple wraps to bulk up the front, as the head is a visual cue and a defining feature of the Gotcha.

Step 8: Finish the Fly

Whip finish the thread securely.
Apply a liberal coat of traditional head cement to penetrate and seal the thread wraps.
For a polished look, optionally add a thin layer of UV resin like Solarez Bone Dry and cure with a UV lamp.