StreamersMickey Finn
The Mickey Finn is a classic American streamer pattern that dates back to the 1930s. This attractor pattern features a distinctive red and yellow bucktail wing over a silver mylar body ribbed with oval tinsel. Known for its flashy appearance and effectiveness on aggressive fish, the Mickey Finn remains one of the most popular streamer patterns for trout and landlocked salmon.
Year Round
Intermediate
Trout, Bass, Landlocked Salmon
Overview
This Charlie Craven pattern from Charlie's Fly Box showcases a classic streamer that has stood the test of time. The Mickey Finn was reportedly named after a notorious drink that would "knock you out" - fitting for a fly that knocks fish out! The key to this pattern is getting the proportions right: the silver body should be smooth and reflective, and the wing should be tied in layers with yellow on bottom and red on top to create the signature color combination.
Pattern Characteristics
Materials
Hook: Tiemco 300, #4-10
Thread: Veevus 14/0, black
Rib: Oval Tinsel, small, silver
Body: Mylar Tinsel, large, silver
Wing: Bucktail, red and yellow
Head Finish: Solarez Bone Dry Plus
Fishing Tips
Season
Year-round effectiveness, but particularly productive in spring and fall when fish are actively feeding on baitfish.
Presentation
Cast across and downstream, letting the fly swing through the current while stripping occasionally. The flashy silver body and bright wing colors attract fish from a distance.
When to Use
Select this pattern when targeting aggressive fish that respond to attractor patterns. Excellent for prospecting unfamiliar water and when fish are keyed in on baitfish.
Water Type
Effective in both moving water and stillwater. In rivers, fish deep pools and runs. In lakes, strip along drop-offs and near structure where predatory fish ambush prey.
Rigging Suggestions
Fish on a 5-7 weight rod with floating or sink-tip line depending on water depth. Use 2X-3X fluorocarbon tippet for abrasion resistance.
Visibility & Floatation
The silver mylar body provides maximum flash while the red and yellow bucktail wing creates a highly visible profile that fish can see from a distance. The bright colors make this an excellent low-light pattern.
