Duracell Fly

Description

The Duracell Fly is one of the most versatile and reliable patterns you can carry. It started as a wannabe confidence fly in my box, but that changed during a cold morning on the water when trout refused everything—until I tied on the Duracell. One drift through a slow, deep pool, and the fly proved itself immediately.

Designed by competitive angler Craig McDonald, the Duracell sinks fast, moves naturally, and works in nearly every type of water. The UV Brown dubbing—with its subtle purple highlights—adds just enough flash to stand out without looking unnatural. The CDC collar brings lifelike movement that seals the deal.

Three Weights. Same Fly. Different Job.

Each Duracell is tied on the same Firehole 516 Jig Stick using the same proven materials. The only difference is bead size, and that difference is everything on the water.

Available Weight Options:

Heavy – 3.5mm Firehole Slotted Tungsten Bead
Best for deep runs, fast current, and high water where getting down quickly matters.

Medium – 3.0mm Firehole Slotted Tungsten Bead
The workhorse option for standard runs when you need steady bottom contact without excessive ticking.

Light – 2.5mm Firehole Slotted Tungsten Bead
Ideal for shallow water, soft seams, and low, clear conditions where a subtle drift triggers more takes.

These flies may look nearly identical in hand, but they fish very differently. Choosing the right weight often matters more than choosing the right pattern.

Why the Duracell Fly Works

• Fast sink rate thanks to a slotted tungsten bead

• UV Brown Ice Dub body mimics natural mayflies with subtle flash

• Durable construction that withstands riffles, rocks, and trout teeth

• CDC collar adds natural motion

• Coq de Leon tail provides lifelike movement

Where and When to Fish the Duracell Fly

• Low-light conditions

• Cold water when trout hug the bottom

• Clear to lightly stained water

• Riffles, pocket water, seams, and deep pools

Perfect For

• Tightline and Euro nymphing

• Double-nymph rigs

• Fishing as a point fly or upper fly in a tandem setup

This pattern has earned its status as a true confidence fly. Once you fish it, you’ll understand why.

Materials Used

• Hook: Jig Hook

• Bead: Tungsten Bead

• Thread: UTC 70 Black

• Tail: Whiting Farms Coq de Leon

• Ribbing: Ultra Wire Red (Brassie size)

• Body: Hareline Ice Dub UV Brown

• Collar: CDC

? Read the full story and tying guide.