Description
The Sandeel fly is a streamer pattern specifically designed to imitate a sand eel (or sand launce), which is a crucial baitfish in many coastal ecosystems. These flies are often long and slender to match the profile of a real sand eel and are typically tied with materials that create a lifelike, undulating action in the water.
Best Suited For:
The Sandeel fly is highly effective for a range of predatory fish that feed on baitfish. It's a top choice for sea trout and striped bass in coastal areas, as well as bluefish, cod, and pollock in the right conditions.
Best Time to Fish:
The best time to fish with a Sandeel fly is often during the spring and fall, as well as in the summer when sand eels are present in large numbers near the shore. They are particularly effective during a sand eel "run" when predators are actively gorging on them. They can be fished at any time of day, but are especially productive during low-light conditions like dawn and dusk.
Water Type:
The Sandeel fly is a specific and highly effective saltwater pattern. While similar streamer patterns can be used in freshwater, the Sandeel is specifically designed for the saltwater environments where its namesake baitfish lives.
Best Location:
This fly is best fished in coastal saltwater environments. Look for areas with sandy bottoms, surf zones, tidal rips, and estuaries where sand eels are known to gather. Fishing from a beach, jetty, or boat can all be effective, depending on where the sand eels are holding.
Other Value:
Retrieval: A key to success is an erratic, fast-paced retrieve with short strips to mimic a fleeing or injured sand eel.
Fly Selection: Sandeel patterns come in various sizes and weights; it's important to match the size of the fly to the baitfish that are currently present.