Streamers
StreamersSizes 8–12by Devin Olsen

Backflop Jig

A slim mink-zonker jig streamer for Euro-nymph streamer tactics.

Imitates: sculpin, minnow, leechfreestone, tailwater, pocket waterjig hook

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Tying Recipe

Backflop Jig

StreamersSize 8–12
1
hook
Dohiku HDJ
Dohiku
2
bead
Tungsten Slotted Bead 2.0mm Copper
Generic
3
thread
Uni Thread 8/0
UNI Products
4
tail
Squirrel Zonker Strip
Wapsi
5
body
UV Polar Chenille
Hareline
6
hackle
Hen Cape Grizzly
Whiting Farms

Tying Video

About This Pattern

A zonker-strip jig streamer with a UV Polar Chenille underbody wrapped simultaneously with the strip. Heavy enough to sink fast, slim enough to move freely.

On the Water

How to Fish It

Over-weight with lead under the body — depth is everything. Match or contrast the chenille to the zonker color.

When to Use

Slow nymphing days. Deep runs where fish need to be triggered, not just drifted-over.

History & Lore

When the nymphing slows, streamer fishing on a Euro-nymph leader is often deadly. Jigging a streamer past pressured fish is one of the best ways to pull trout out of their doldrums. Devin Olsen's favorite streamer for this presentation is the Backflop Jig. The mink/squirrel zonker provides all the movement, but the slim profile lets it sink quickly back to depth after being lifted by the rod tip. Compared to his nymphs, Devin over-weights the Backflop with lots of lead or extra tungsten beads buried under the body, ensuring depth in fast water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Backflop Jig should I use?

The Backflop Jig is most commonly tied in sizes 8–12. Slow nymphing days. Deep runs where fish need to be triggered, not just drifted-over.

What does a Backflop Jig imitate?

The Backflop Jig primarily imitates sculpin, minnow, leech. Over-weight with lead under the body — depth is everything. Match or contrast the chenille to the zonker color.

How do you fish a Backflop Jig?

Over-weight with lead under the body — depth is everything. Match or contrast the chenille to the zonker color.

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Pattern Details

Category
Streamers
Sizes
8–12
Hook Styles
jig hook
Imitates
sculpin, minnow, leech
Water Types
freestone, tailwater, pocket water
Origin
Devin Olsen