StreamersBarr's Meat Whistle
The Barr's Meat Whistle is a versatile streamer that imitates a variety of baitfish. Its rabbit fur tail gives it lifelike motion and it sinks quickly to where the fish are.
Year Round
Intermediate
Bass, Trout
Overview
Barr's Meat Whistle is a heavy, jig-style streamer tied on a 90-degree jig hook, designed to get deep and swim with a lifelike jigging motion. The fly features a conehead or tungsten bead up front, a marabou tail for movement, and a body wrapped with crosscut rabbit strip for bulk and flow. Rubber legs are often added for extra movement and attraction. It's best tied with lead wraps behind the head to balance the fly and help it ride hook point up, reducing snags. The Meat Whistle is durable, sinks quickly, and is deadly on bass and large trout.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 5262, size #4-#6
Thread: Black, 6/0
Tail: Olive Rabbit Zonker Strip
Body: Olive Estaz
Legs: Barred Rubber Legs
Bead: Gold Cone Head
Weight: Lead Wire
Fishing Tips
Season
Barr's Meat Whistle is effective year-round, but is particularly deadly in the spring and fall when predatory fish are actively feeding.
Presentation
Cast this fly into likely fish holding areas and let it sink. Use a slow, steady retrieve with occasional pauses and twitches.
When to Use
The Barr's Meat Whistle is a go-to pattern when you're targeting predatory fish like bass and trout. It can be used in both stillwater and moving water conditions.
Water Type
This fly excels in both clear and stained waters. It is particularly effective in stillwater conditions where its lifelike action can entice fish to strike.
Rigging Suggestions
Use a heavy-duty leader and tippet to withstand the aggressive strikes this fly often induces.
Visibility & Floatation
This fly sinks quickly and is designed to be fished near the bottom. Its bead head helps it sink and its bright colors make it visible in a variety of conditions.
