Cordeiro's Flat Mack Fly

Cordeiro's Flat Mack Fly is a premium saltwater pattern designed to catch large striped bass and bluefish. Created by Joe Cordeiro, this fly uses a specific "flatwing" tying style where the feathers lay horizontally rather than vertically. This design gives the fly a wide, realistic profile that looks exactly like a mackerel in the water. It is a must-have for your saltwater box because it moves and swims even when you stop stripping. This pattern is famous for tricking trophy fish that ignore other flies.

What It Imitates

This fly specifically imitates a mackerel. The barred feathers and colors match the natural markings of this baitfish perfectly. It can also represent other large baitfish like herring or menhaden when they are present.

How To Use It

Fish this fly with a "swing" technique or a strip-pause retrieve. The magic of a flatwing is that the feathers drift and flutter side-to-side when the fly is not moving. Cast it across the current and let it swing tight, or strip it slowly with long pauses. Do not strip it as fast as you would a Clouser Minnow. Let the water current work the feathers for you. It works best on an intermediate or sinking line to get it down into the strike zone.

When To Use It

Use this fly when striped bass are feeding on large bait schools. It shines during the spring and fall runs when mackerel are abundant near the shore. This pattern is also a great choice for fishing structure like boulder fields or rips where current is strong. The large profile makes it easy for fish to see in low light or stained water.

Why We Like It

We like the Flat Mack because of its incredible movement. Most flies look stiff in the water, but this one breathes and pulses like a real fish. It uses eleven individual feathers to build a substantial body without adding too much weight. This means you can cast a large fly all day without getting tired. The craftsmanship is top-notch, ensuring the fly holds its shape after multiple fish.

Comparisons

Cordeiro's Flat Mack vs Lefty's Deceiver:

The Lefty's Deceiver is a classic baitfish pattern that uses vertical feathers and bucktail. It tracks straight through the water and is very durable. The Flat Mack uses horizontal feathers that kick out to the sides. You should choose the Deceiver for general searching, but choose the Flat Mack when you need that specific swimming action to trigger picky fish.

Cordeiro's Flat Mack vs Clouser Minnow:

The Clouser Minnow has heavy lead eyes that make it sink quickly with a jigging motion. It is better for dredging deep holes or fishing actively on the bottom. The Flat Mack is nearly weightless and hovers in the water column. Choose the Flat Mack when fish are suspended or feeding near the surface.

Cordeiro's Flat Mack vs Standard Rhody Flatwing:

A standard Rhody Flatwing typically uses two or three saddle feathers for a sparse, subtle profile. It imitates small silversides or sand eels. The Flat Mack uses eleven feathers to create a much larger, wider meal. Use the Standard Rhody for spooky fish in clear water, but switch to the Flat Mack when you want to target the biggest fish in the school.