StreamersEP Baitfish
The EP Baitfish is a versatile minnow pattern designed by Enrico Puglisi that works in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Using synthetic EP Fibers, this fly creates a translucent, lifelike baitfish profile that moves naturally in the water. The pattern is relatively simple to tie due to its repetitive construction, yet produces a highly effective imitation that predatory fish find irresistible.
Year Round
Intermediate
Bass, Pike, Striped Bass, Tarpon
Overview
This pattern was popularized by Enrico Puglisi, whose EP Fibers revolutionized synthetic fly tying materials. The key to this fly is building up layers of EP Fibers and trimming them to shape a realistic baitfish profile. The fly can be tied in countless color combinations to match local forage fish, from chartreuse and white for freshwater minnows to pink and white for saltwater baitfish. The synthetic fibers shed water easily, making the fly lighter to cast than traditional bucktail patterns.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco TMC 600SP, #1/0–#2/0
Thread: Danville .006 Monofilament
Body: Enrico Puglisi (EP) Fibers, various colors (chartreuse, pink, pale olive, white)
Eyes: Flymen Fish-Skull Living Eyes, 8.5mm, Fire or similar
Head Cement: Loon Fly Finish or UV resin
Fishing Tips
Season
Effective year-round wherever predatory fish are feeding on baitfish. Particularly productive during baitfish migrations and when fish are actively hunting.
Presentation
Strip the fly with varied retrieves to imitate a fleeing or injured baitfish. Use short, sharp strips for aggressive fish, or longer, slower pulls in cold water. Let the fly sink to the appropriate depth before beginning your retrieve.
When to Use
Best when predatory fish are actively feeding on baitfish. Look for surface activity, birds diving, or baitfish schools being pushed to the surface. Also effective as a searching pattern in likely holding areas.
Water Type
Highly versatile pattern that works in rivers, lakes, and saltwater flats. Effective around structure, drop-offs, and anywhere baitfish congregate. Equally at home in freshwater bass ponds or saltwater tidal flats.
Rigging Suggestions
Use a 9-foot leader tapered to 0X-2X for freshwater, or 20-30 lb fluorocarbon for saltwater applications. A stripping basket helps manage line when wading. Consider an intermediate or sinking line to reach deeper fish.
Visibility & Floatation
This is a sinking fly that can be fished at various depths depending on line choice and retrieve speed. The EP Fibers create a translucent, shimmering profile that mimics natural baitfish. The synthetic materials maintain their action even when wet.
