The MFC Albie Candy is a premier saltwater pattern designed to fool the keen eyes of False Albacore and Bonito. It mimics the small, translucent baitfish that cause feeding frenzies during the fall run along the coast. You need this fly in your box because albies are notoriously picky eaters that demand a perfect silhouette to commit to a strike. While built for albies, it also catches striped bass and bluefish when they are keyed in on small prey.What It ImitatesThis pattern imitates anchovies, silversides, and bay anchovies commonly found in saltwater environments. It uses synthetic materials and a durable head to create a slim, translucent profile that looks exactly like a fleeing baitfish. The realistic eyes provide a trigger point for predatory fish looking for a meal.How To Use ItFish this fly with a fast, two-handed strip to trigger aggressive strikes from fast-moving pelagic fish. Cast directly into or just ahead of breaking fish and begin moving the fly immediately so it looks like fleeing prey. If you are fishing open water without visible surface activity, a steady retrieve with occasional pauses can draw fish up from the depths to investigate.When To Use ItTie this on during the fall mullet run or whenever small baitfish are present along the coast. It works exceptionally well in clear water and bright sun where fish get a good look at your presentation. It is also a top choice during the chaotic surface blitzes common in September and October when matching the size of the bait is critical.Why We Like ItWe love this fly because it withstands the punishment of toothy, hard-fighting saltwater fish. The finish is tough, and the hook holds up under pressure without bending. It matches the hatch perfectly when fish are keyed in on tiny bait, which often makes the difference between a refusal and a hookup during a blitz.ComparisonsMFC Albie Candy vs. Umpqua Surf CandyThe Albie Candy and Surf Candy share a similar lineage as epoxy-headed baitfish imitations. The Surf Candy is the original design by Bob Popovics and covers a wide range of species with a general baitfish look. The Albie Candy is tied specifically for the picky nature of false albacore with a profile that matches their favorite food sources more closely. Choose the Albie Candy when targeting albies specifically during the fall run.MFC Albie Candy vs. Clouser MinnowThe Clouser Minnow relies on heavy lead eyes to get deep and create a jigging action. The MFC Albie Candy is lighter and designed to swim higher in the water column near the surface. You should choose the Albie Candy when fish are breaking on top or feeding on baitfish in the upper few feet of water. The Clouser is better for dredging deeper channels or when you need to get down fast in heavy current.MFC Albie Candy vs. EP Peanut ButterThe EP Peanut Butter uses synthetic fibers to create a tall, wide profile that pushes a lot of water. The Albie Candy has a much slimmer, hydrodynamic shape that cuts through the wind and sinks quickly into the feeding zone. Select the Albie Candy when fish are feeding on slender bait like anchovies or silversides. Use the EP Peanut Butter for wider baitfish profiles like adult bunker or herring.
