If you’re an avid saltwater fly fisher, having a solid Peanut Bunker Fly in your box is a must. This pattern closely mimics small baitfish like peanut bunker and is effective for targeting various predatory species. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own durable, water-pushing Flex Head Peanut Bunker Fly.

This fly tutorial is by Matt Bauer, see more of Matt at: https://www.instagram.com/huckleberry_ri/

Materials & Tools List

Materials:

• SF Fiber in Colors: Mullet brown, olive, off-white (with silver), yellow, pink, purple

• Estaz (peach color)

• E6000 Adhesive (for securing eyes)

• SolarEz Flex Formula UV Resin (for forming a durable head)

• 10mm Stick-On Eyes

• Danville’s Monofilament Thread

• 3/0 Bluewater Hook (Ahrex)

Tools:

• UV Torch(for curing resin)

• Scissors

• Push Tool (or empty pen cap) for fiber shaping

• Bodkin (for fluffing fibers)

Step-by-Step Tying Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hook and Thread Base

1. Secure the hook in your vise.

2. Wrap the monofilament thread along the hook shank, from just before the hook bend to behind the eye.

Step 2: Build the Fly’s Support Base

1. Wrap estaz up the shank, keeping the wraps tight for support.

2. Leave about a hook-eye length of space at the front.

3. Tie off and fluff the material with a bodkin.

Step 3: Create the Body with Fiber Layers

1. Cut and taper the fibers: Fold each fiber strand in half and cut at the middle.

2. Tie in the white fibers: Secure them at the bottom of the hook, allowing room for other colors on top.

3. Mix the top colors: Combine olive and mullet brown fibers, blending by hand.

4. Secure the mixed fibers on top of the hook shank using a hollow tie method.

5. Add accent colors: Introduce small amounts of yellow, pink, and lavender fibers near the eye area.

Step 4: Shape the Fly’s Head

1. Bring the thread forward and create a “thread dam” behind the hook eye to hold fibers back.

2. Use a push tool to fold fibers backward, creating the desired baitfish profile.

Step 5: Attach the Eyes

1. Apply a small dab ofE6000 adhesive to each side.

2. Position the stick-on eyes over the olive fiber.

Step 6: Apply UV Resin for a Durable Flex Head

1. Start applyingSolarEz Flex Formula UV Resin at the front of the fly, working backward.

2. Smooth out excess resin and ensure a clean baitfish shape.

3. Use aUV torch to partially cure the resin, allowing flexibility.

4. For extra durability, let the fly sit in the sun or inside a warm car dashboard for complete curing.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Trim any excess fibers for a smooth taper.

2. Make small cuts to refine the profile but avoid excessive trimming.

3. Test the fly’s flexibility—when a fish bites, the material should move aside, revealing a good hook gap.

Fishing Tips for the Peanut Bunker Fly

• This fly works best in areas where peanut bunker or similar baitfish are present.

• It pushes a lot of water, making it effective in murky conditions.

• Try different color variations to match the local forage fish.

Final Thoughts

Tying theFlex Head Peanut Bunker Fly is a great way to ensure you have an effective baitfish imitation in your fly box. The combination offlexible material, secure eyes, and a natural profile makes this a top-tier fly for saltwater fishing. Tie a few in different sizes and experiment with colors to maximize your success on the water!