02/22/2026
These are two builds of two undeniably popular patterns that will be soon heading to the Minnesota Muskie Expo! The Heavy Metal Black pattern has been a hot commodity since I began making it a few years ago and you will be able to find it as an X-Changer or Neutralizer at the show next weekend!
ALL of the X-Changer modular bucktail builds now have the option for the Switchblade Setup (as pictured) where ANY bucktail blades can simply be split ringed on. GAME CHANGER. Run it as a single or double, mismatch blades on a whim and easily change colors to match what the fish are reacting to. What's more? Replace the entire blade set in the front with a Delta blade or Chopper Prop Combo and you just converted it into a surface bait. What's more? Toss it into emergent vegetation and retrieve it clean when you have the hand-tied weedless hook in the back. Improved function and more options is absolute value 😎
And the Neutralizer?
Yep, it took me 10 years to settle on an articulated castable fly and this one went way beyond a passing grade! These three premium tied sections are split ringed together and is also modular. Each section is keel weighted and buoyant. The rear section barely floats while the front two sections barely sink making the tail "kick" when using a pull/pause retrieve. Take away the front section for a smaller profile. Or use the front as it's own small fly. Again, more options and more value.
It's also a big fish bait. We knew right away when the average fish size was 43". I hear a lot of people talking about how big heavy baits are too much for them to throw. These ARE a big bait, while not being heavy. These premium ties are a marabou body with a life-like look. I also pack glass rattles into these for that desirable added noise. There is a ton of hang time since it takes 5 seconds to drop a foot. Similar to Dive and Rise baits, this pairs with a snap-on weight kit to adjust your sink rate and action as desired. This more compact version was inspired by the one and only Steve Herbeck when he said "I know you can do it." So thanks Herbie for putting your foot down, it just took a couple more prototypes 😜
Back to the patterns, the Lime Licker was a necessary restock after the last show so while I made those flies, I figured there might be some interest in a bucktail version as well. In the picture, I set it up as a 8-9 mismatch. Also, these glow in the dark thanks to the flash materials. I hope you like it!
Come by the booth starting this Friday at 1pm and see everything for yourself in person! Looking forward to seeing folks at the show with another great muskie season on the horizon! Cheers! 🍻
