This pattern started as a copy. I tied my first version after seeing one from Emil, the Guideline guy. I gave it a shot during the final weeks of that season. The results were clear: I landed more migratory trout in that short window than I ever had before. I’m not claiming those fish wouldn’t have eaten another fly—but the consistency was hard to ignore. It felt like the fly was doing something right. That experience built serious confidence.
Since then, I haven’t gone on a float without MuddlerZonkers in my box. Over the seasons, I’ve learned where and when this fly shines. It’s produced fish for both me and my guests—enough to earn a permanent place on the river. Having fished Galloup’s Zoo Cougars for over a decade, I already had a good feel for this type of fly. And even though there’s no sculpin in these waters, and migratory trout aren’t feeding in the river per se, it doesn’t matter. It’s the action that triggers the take.
That water-pushing head acts like a brake, making the fly turn on a pause—something the fish just can’t seem to ignore. The movement of the tapered squirrel zonker, blending into the deer hair collar, gives the fly its unmatched profile and swim. It’s not the fastest or easiest tie, but they hold up well—unless Mr. Pike shows up.
I’ve put together a full tying breakdown of the fly over on Patreon. For the price of a pint, you’ll get the detailed video and support a small one-man guide operation along the way.
Give it a try—and let me know how it fishes for you.
—Henri Kiviniemi