Fly Tying Inventory
Duracell Jig
Originally created by Craig McDonald, the Duracell Jig quickly became a favorite in Euro nymphing circles. Built almost entirely from UV Brown Ice Dub with a CDC collar, it combines flash, movement, and a quick sink rate. The jig design rides hook-point up for snag-resistant bottom fishing.
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Materials
Fulling Mill 5045 Jig Force Barbless Hook, size 14
Fulling Mill Slotted Tungsten Bead, 3.2mm, silver
8/0 UNI-Thread Waxed Midge, camel
Ice Dub, UV Brown
UTC Ultra Wire, red, small
Nature's Spirit CDC, medium slate dun
How to Tie the Duracell Jig
- 1
Step 1
Slide a slotted tungsten bead onto the jig hook and seat at the eye. Secure in the vise.
- 2
Step 2
Optionally add a few wraps of lead wire behind the bead for extra weight.
- 3
Step 3
Start camel-colored thread behind the bead and wrap a smooth base down to the bend.
- 4
Step 4
Tie in a length of red Ultra Wire at the bend for ribbing.
- 5
Step 5
Dub a slim noodle of UV Brown Ice Dub onto thread. Wrap forward to form a tapered body from tail to roughly 80% of the shank behind the bead.
Keep the dubbing thin and tight for a quick-sinking profile.
- 6
Step 6
Spiral-wrap the red wire rib in open, even turns over the dubbed body. Tie off and helicopter or cut excess.
- 7
Step 7
Take a CDC feather, stroke fibers rearward, and make 1-2 wraps right behind the bead to form a soft, mobile collar. Tie down securely.
The CDC collar traps air bubbles and pulses naturally underwater—don't trim it too short.
- 8
Step 8
Build a small thread dam behind the bead if needed. Whip finish and trim. Optionally add a drop of head cement or UV resin.
Watch Tying Tutorial
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOGgg0bvrAk
Credit: Craig McDonald; Fly Fish Food; Trident Fly Fishing