The McGinty

The McGinty is a classic wet fly created in 1883 by John McGinty of Chicago, originally designed as a drowned bumblebee imitation for bass. Its yellow-and-black body, red tail, and soft hackle collar soon proved equally effective for trout, panfish, and even steelhead in larger sizes. Its strong contrast and buggy movement make it productive whether swung, lifted at the end of the drift, or dead-drifted through softer seams.

Add a single wrap of heavier hen hackle at the front—this creates a subtle wobble and extra water displacement, often converting hesitant followers into committed strikes.