Fly Tying Foam Spider

Fly Tying Foam Spider: Step-by-Step Guide

The foam spider is a simple yet effective fly pattern for targeting panfish, such as bluegill and crappie. This fly is easy to tie, durable, and highly visible on the water, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced fly

Materials Needed:

• Hook: Size 10-14 dry fly hook

• Thread: 6/0 or 8/0, color to match the foam

• Foam: 2mm craft foam, color of your choice (black, white, green, yellow)

• Rubber Legs: Round rubber legs, color to match or contrast with the foam

• Super Glue or Head Cement

Tools Needed:

• Vise

• Bobbin

• Scissors

• Bodkin

• Ruler or measuring tape

• 
  

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Secure the Hook

1. Place the hook in the vise and secure it tightly.

2. Start the thread just behind the hook eye and wrap back to the bend in tight, touching wraps to create a thread base.

Step 2: Prepare the Foam Body

1. Cut a strip of foam approximately 1/8 inch wide and about 2 inches long. Adjust the width depending on the size of the hook.

2. Round off one end of the foam strip to create a smooth head.

Step 3: Attach the Foam Body

1. Lay the foam strip on top of the hook shank, with the rounded end extending just past the hook eye.

2. Make a few loose wraps with the thread over the foam to position it, then tighten the wraps to secure the foam in place.

3. Wrap the thread forward, securing the foam along the length of the hook shank to the eye. Make sure the foam extends past the hook bend to form the body.

Step 4: Add the Rubber Legs

1. Cut two pieces of rubber leg material, each about 2 inches long.

2. Place one piece of rubber leg material on each side of the foam body at the midpoint of the hook shank.

3. Secure the rubber legs with a few tight wraps of thread. Position them so they extend out horizontally from the sides of the foam body.

4. Repeat the process to add another set of rubber legs slightly behind the first set, securing them with tight thread wraps.

Step 5: Finish the Fly

1. Advance the thread to the hook eye and create a small thread head.

2. Whip finish and cut the thread.

3. Trim the rubber legs to the desired length, typically about the length of the hook shank.

4. Apply a small drop of super glue or head cement to the thread wraps at the head and the leg tie-in points for added durability.

Step 6: Inspect and Adjust

1. Inspect the fly to ensure all materials are secure and the legs are evenly spaced.

2. Adjust the legs as needed to ensure they are splayed out at even angles, mimicking the natural spread of a spider's legs.
   

Fishing with the Foam Spider

Presentation Techniques

• Surface Presentation: The foam spider is designed to float on the water's surface. Cast it near structures, under overhanging trees, or along weed edges where panfish are likely to be feeding.

• Gentle Landing: Try to make a gentle landing to avoid spooking fish. Let the fly sit still on the water for a few moments after the cast.

• Slow Retrieve: Use a slow, steady retrieve with occasional pauses to mimic the natural movement of an insect on the water’s surface. You can also give it slight twitches to create a small disturbance, attracting fish.

When to Use the Foam Spider

• Warm Weather: The foam spider is most effective during warmer months when insects are active on the water’s surface.

• Shallow Water: Target shallow areas where panfish are likely to be feeding, especially near the edges of ponds and lakes.

• Sunny Days: Bright, sunny days can be particularly effective for using foam spiders, as fish are more likely to be near the surface feeding on insects.

Tips for Success

• Vary Colors: Experiment with different colors of foam and rubber legs to match the local insect population and water conditions.

• Adjust Leg Length: Longer legs can create more movement on the water, while shorter legs can make a more subtle presentation.

• Keep It Simple: The foam spider is an effective pattern due to its simplicity. Focus on making clean, well-proportioned ties for the best results.

The foam spider is a versatile and easy-to-tie fly pattern that can yield great results, especially when targeting panfish. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a must-have in any fly box. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fly tyer, the foam spider is a rewarding pattern to tie and fish. Enjoy the process and the satisfaction of catching fish on a fly you tied yourself!