MFC Hollow Mackerel Fly

The MFC Hollow Mackerel Fly is a large profile baitfish pattern designed to trick aggressive saltwater predators. Tied by Montana Fly Company, this pattern uses the famous "hollow tie" technique to create a big silhouette without adding heavy bulk. It is a must-have for anglers chasing striped bass, bluefish, roosterfish, or false albacore that are keyed in on substantial meals. The fly maintains its shape in the water while pulsing with every strip.

What It Imitates

This pattern specifically imitates a mackerel, a common and calorie-rich food source for many saltwater game fish. Its high profile and realistic barring also allow it to pass for other large baitfish like bunker, herring, or shad. The hollow construction keeps the materials flared out to match the wide body of these prey items without collapsing during a fast retrieve.

How To Use It

Fish this fly with a stripping retrieve to mimic a fleeing baitfish. Because it is light and sheds water easily, you can cast it all day with an intermediate or sinking line. Vary your retrieve speed based on the species. Use fast, two-handed strips for false albacore and tuna, or try a pause-and-jerk cadence for striped bass to let the materials breathe in the current.

When To Use It

Tie this on when you see large baitfish in the water or when predators are blitzing on the surface. It shines in clear water where fish rely on sight to feed, as the realistic profile and eyes trigger aggressive strikes. It is also an excellent choice for searching open water when you need a fly that pushes water and draws attention from a distance.

Why We Like It

We love this fly because it solves the problem of casting big flies. Large streamers can often feel like casting a wet sock, but the MFC Hollow Mackerel sheds water instantly and flies through the air with ease. The mix of bucktail and flash gives it a lifelike movement that synthetic flies sometimes lack. It is durable enough to withstand toothy fish but light enough for accurate casts.

Comparisons

MFC Hollow Mackerel Fly vs. Lefty's Deceiver

The Lefty's Deceiver is a classic, sleek pattern that sinks well and has a thinner profile. The Hollow Mackerel has a much taller, wider body that pushes more water and creates a larger shadow. Choose the Deceiver for smaller bait or spooky fish, but switch to the Hollow Mackerel when you need to match the size of big bunker or mackerel.

MFC Hollow Mackerel Fly vs. EP Peanut Butter

The EP Peanut Butter is made entirely of synthetic fibers, which makes it very light but sometimes stiff. The Hollow Mackerel uses natural bucktail tied in the hollow style, which breathes and pulses more realistically in the water. While both shed water well, the Hollow Mackerel offers better movement on the pause.

MFC Hollow Mackerel Fly vs. Clouser Minnow

The Clouser Minnow is a weighted jigging fly designed to dive fast and bounce off the bottom. The Hollow Mackerel is unweighted or lightly weighted, designed to swim higher in the water column and suspend. Use the Clouser for deep structure, but choose the Hollow Mackerel for fishing the upper layers or shallow flats.