Fly Tying Patterns: Ace of Spades

Ace of Spades - Fly Tying Pattern
  • Hook: Long Shank #8 - 12
  • Thread: Black 8/0
  • Rib: Oval Silver
  • Body: Black Chenille
  • Wing: 2 x Black Hen Hackles
  • Over Wing: Bronze Mallard Feather Slips
  • Throat Hackle: Guinea Fowl
  • Tied by D. Howard
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The Ace of Spades originlated in New Zealand and represents a minnow or small bait fish. Created in the mid-1970s it is a Matuka style pattern. This means that its wing and tail are tied in as one piece and secured by ribbing that runs from the tail to the head.

Not the easiest of patterns to tie, the Over Wing is probably the trickiest part of the whole pattern. Mallard can be very delicate and good quality material is needed to succeed in completing it. The 2 hen hackles need to be aligned carefully and tied inner faces together. The throat hackle is tied as a false beard.

The Ace of Spades can be a great get-out-of-jail-free pattern late into the season. Fished deep on a sinking line with a slow retrieve, takes are positive and rod-bending.