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The Story Behind the Black Ghost Minnow
The MAO’S BLACK GHOST MINNOW is a variation developed by Mauricio Amortegui from the general concept of Craft Fur Minnow-style flies. This particular variation was created and named the Black Ghost Minnow in May 2018. It was originally developed with a specific target in mind: the famous Peacock Bass found in the canals of Broward County, Florida.
Early testing quickly produced results, with both Peacock Bass and Largemouth Bass responding to the pattern.
A Slender Profile to Suggest a Vulnerable Baitfish
The goal was to create a fly with a slender, sparse profile that suggests a medium-sized baitfish, similar to a sardine. Its slower swimming action, combined with a slight downward movement of the head during the retrieve, is intended to suggest a vulnerable or struggling baitfish. The black-and-white color combination provides strong contrast and helps define the fly’s silhouette in the water.
Design, Weight & Movement
One of the distinctive features of this variation is the addition of five wraps of .025 lead wire secured to the hook. The synthetic fibers are tied over the weighted section to progressively form the body. The added weight causes the head to dip slightly during the retrieve, contributing to the appearance of a baitfish in distress.
Built with EP Fibers
The Black Ghost Minnow is constructed primarily with white and black EP Fibers, tied progressively in alternating sections along the top and bottom of the hook. This tying method creates the baitfish profile while maintaining a relatively sparse and lightweight silhouette. The ¼-inch molded 3D eyes complete the front profile of the fly. The head is finished with Black Ultra Thread 140 Denier and protected with two coats of UV epoxy resin.
Tested on Peacock Bass & Largemouth Bass
Testing in Broward County canals produced strikes and catches from Peacock Bass and Largemouth Bass. Peacock Bass strikes were fast and aggressive, showing that the combination of profile, movement, and black-and-white contrast could trigger a strong predatory response. The photographs included with this pattern document these catches and show several versions of the Black Ghost Minnow.
See why anglers trust Mao's Fly on every cast.
Exploring Color Variations
The Black Ghost Minnow can be tied in different hook sizes—with a preference for #6—and with EP Fibers in other color combinations. Possible variations include beige, brown, orange, olive green, chartreuse, or a predominantly white version with only a subtle black stripe. As we test these variations, we will continue documenting and sharing the results.
New Waters, New Species
Our next step is to continue testing the Black Ghost Minnow in the Florida Everglades and expand our trials into Biscayne Bay and the Florida Keys. The goal is to explore how the pattern performs in saltwater and discover what other species may respond to it.
Continuing the Process
Every new fishing session gives us another opportunity to observe how the pattern behaves and how different species respond to it. That process remains an important part of how we develop and refine our flies: Design. Tie. Fish. Observe. Keep improving.
MAO’S BLACK GHOST MINNOW — Specifications
Every cast tells a story.
From calm mornings in the Everglades to unforgettable trophy catches, Mao's Fly is designed to perform where it matters most.
Whether you’re chasing Peacock Bass or exploring new waters, every strike begins with confidence.
The Mao’s Black Ghost Minnow was created for anglers who appreciate craftsmanship, patience, and the excitement of every cast. Each fly is carefully handcrafted using premium materials and tested in real fishing conditions throughout the Florida Everglades.
Because every strike tells a story, and every catch becomes a memory.
Handcrafted Flies for Every Fishing Adventure
Every fly in the Mao’s Factory Collection is handcrafted using premium materials and carefully tested to deliver lifelike action, durability, and consistent performance on the water. Whether you’re fishing the Florida Everglades or your favorite local waters, you’ll find the perfect fly for every condition and target species.
Every Mao’s Factory fly is handcrafted with premium materials, lifelike action, and proven craftsmanship to help you fish with confidence. Explore our complete collection and discover the perfect fly for your next adventure.
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