The Mop Fly

Published on Nov 20. 2025 - 3 days ago
Updated or edited 2 days ago

Mop flies are some of the easiest and most effective flies out there. From trout, to bass, to sunfish and even carp or catfish all will eat this fly, so it is extremely versatile. Also mop flies are not any particular pattern, but just a material used. There are dozens of "mop flies" out there, ranging from nymphs like I tied today, to even dry flies. So why then does the "mop fly" get such a bad rap? I have no idea. I think it's a great material to use, and gives makes for some very interesting and unique flies. Some patterns aren't even possible without these mop pieces.

So are these really cheater flies? I guess that's who you talk to. To me, they are just another tool in my fishing toolbox that allows me to catch fish. I respect those who limit themselves when going out to fish. All the power to them. I myself will even go out fishing for a day with the desire to catch fish only on dry flies. But this is a per trip type of thing, and not a general rule. If I am struggling to catch fish with one pattern, or even style of fly, I have no problem switching to just about any pattern out there, like these mop flies.

Now if you want to limit yourself, by all means do so. But dont judge others as long as they are following all the local rules and regulations. If you want to fish with any particular fly, dont let others judge you either, just go have fun, and be respectful.

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Materials
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Hook 1: Risen Barbless Nymph 9231 (size 10) - https://www.risenfly.com/collections/hooks/products/barbless-nymph-9231
Hook 2: Risen Barbless Jig Hook 9230 (size 10) - https://www.risenfly.com/collections/hooks/products/jig-fly-hook-9230
Bead for Hook 1: Risen Brass Bead (4mm) - https://www.risenfly.com/collections/beads-and-weights/products/brass-b…
Bead for Hook 2: Risen Tungsten Slotted Bead (4.5mm) - https://www.risenfly.com/collections/beads-and-weights/products/slotted…
Thread: Veevus 6/0 (black) - https://amzn.to/4o3zV0S
Mop Pieces: Risen Mop Pieces - https://www.risenfly.com/collections/feathers/products/mop-fly-pieces
Mop: https://amzn.to/4r3HRSN
Straggle Legs: https://amzn.to/4r2ozNr
Estaz: https://amzn.to/4pndlBG
Dubbing: https://amzn.to/4oRKxRU
Soft Hackle: https://amzn.to/3Kdf9hz
Resin: Solarez Ultra Thin - https://solarez.com/fly-tie-ultra-thin-bone-dry-clear.html