The pattern notebook · terrestrial
Foam Beetle
How do you tie a Foam Beetle?
Foam Beetle is a terrestrial fly pattern for Trout, Panfish. Find its 6 materials and 11 tying steps below.
The Foam Beetle is a terrestrial fly pattern designed to imitate beetles and other small insects. It is fished on the surface and is effective for trout and panfish.
- Difficulty
- 2 of 5
- Target species
- Trout, Panfish
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At the vise
Materials
- Dry Fly Hook, TMC 100, sizes 12-16
- Thread (70 Denier), Black
- Peacock Herl
- 2mm Foam, Black (body shell)
- Black Round Rubber Legs
- 2mm Foam, Fluorescent Orange (indicator)
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Tying instructions
Start by placing the hook in the vise.
Create a thread base along the length of the hook shank.
Cut an 1/8" wide strip of black foam (~1.5-2" long) and tie it in at the bend of the hook.
Tie in 3-5 strands of Peacock Herl at the bend.
Tie in rear legs at the bend with material extending evenly from each side of the hook.
Twist Peacock Herl and wrap it forward along the length of the hook, securing with thread.
Tie a single black rubber leg along each side of the shank immediately behind the eye.
Pull the black foam forward and secure it with thread at the same tie-down point as the front legs.
Tie in the fluorescent orange foam as a 'Hot Spot' indicator at the same tie-down point as the foam and front legs.
Trim legs, foam, and 'Hot Spot' to the desired length.
Whip finish and apply head cement or flex seal to complete the fly.