Crystal Bugger Jig
The Crystal Bugger Jig is a killer streamer that combines the movement of marabou, the flash of Estaz, and a deadly jig-style presentation. This variation leaves off the hackle for a slimmer profile and adds rubber legs. It's a must-have in any fly box, and with this step-by-step guide, you'll be cranking them out in no time!
Materials Needed:
Hook: Hanak H 400 BL or Firehole 551 Jig Hook (e.g., size 8-12), Size 12 shown
Bead: Tungsten Bead (sized to hook), Size 3.5mm Shown
Thread: Semperfli Classic Waxed Thread 6/0 or 8/0 (e.g., black, olive, or color matching your fly)
Tail: Black Marabou Plume
Flash: Flashabou Accent, Pearl
Body: Estaz, Opal Black
Legs: Round Rubber Legs or Sili Legs, Black/Blue Flake
1. Prepare the hook
Slide the bead over the hook and place the hook securely in the vise.
2. Secure the thread and tie in the flash
Start the thread and wrap an even tread base from the bead to slightly beyond the bend. Tie in a few strands of pearl flashabou accent at the bend of the hook. Return the thread to the bead.
3. Add the marabou tail
Select one marabou plume, pluck the fine tips, then tie in the clump on top of the hook shank. The tail length should be 1-2 shank lengths, depending on your preferred profile. Smooth out the tie-in point with the thread, and return the thread to the bead.
4. Tie in the Estaz
Tie in the Estaz near the bead, wrap your thread back over it, secure it along the hook shank, and stop at the bend. Then, return your thread to the bead.
5. Form the body
Wrap the Estaz forward to the bead, placing one wrap against the next. Secure the Estaz behind the hook eye with a few wraps of thread and trim the excess.
6. Add the legs
Tie in two strands of sili legs on each side of the hook shank. Trim any excess. The legs should extend just beyond the marabou tail.
7. Finish the fly
Whip finish the thread behind the bead to further secure the legs and complete the fly. Add a drop of head cement on the thread.
Fishing the crystal bugger jig
The crystal bugger jig can be fished in several ways. However, my favorite approaches are to use smaller sizes, such as a size 12, like a nymph underneath an indicator, tightline, or euro-nymphing.
