The Intruder is a revolutionary steelhead fly pattern characterized by its two-station design (rear and forward) typically tied on a shank or tube. Originally developed to imitate squid or fish, this pattern creates a large profile while using minimal materials. The design emphasizes sparse tying with long material fibers that allow room for movement in the water. Materials can include marabou, fox, and Craft Fur, with key tying principles focusing on maintaining sparseness, natural movement, and minimal weight. Early versions featured a small mono loop at the rear of the shank, though this was later eliminated. The pattern’s effectiveness comes from its engineered approach that balances sink rate, profile, and movement. The Intruder has become highly influential in steelhead fishing, particularly for heavy water conditions, with its “propping” method of sparse tying becoming a standard in the steelheading community.
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