Let’s be honest, can a fly really KILL fly fishing? Of course not! Yet in fly fishing, many hold true to the belief that there is that perfect fly, the magic bullet, one that will catch EVERY fish in the water. Once finding that fly, will the experience be ruined for you…or enhanced? Let’s find out!
Here it is, THE Mop fly! Over the years, this pattern has really caused a mix of emotions for fly tiers and fishers alike. Many exclaim, “Can’t stop the Mop!” whereas others won’t even acknowledge its existence. Where do you fall on this scale?
Though a fly tier, I hold true that presentation trumps effective fly selection every time, yet more importantly I believe that the successful combination of both is the KEY to catching fish. I’ve worked hard over the years to push myself in fly fishing, experimenting with various styles like emerger fishing, Euro nymphing, articulated streamers and more. With each method has come it’s own set of preferred flies, and it’s been fun to see my tying evolve with fishing techniques.
But along the way, there have been times where I’ve used a fly that has seemed to be simply LIGHTS OUT when fly fishing, no matter the style (or lack thereof) employed. When experiencing this, I have nearly felt guilty, as the fish really have no option but to hit my fly. It’s on these days that I didn’t want to leave the water, knowing the experience will doubtfully be replicated.
Here are three flies that have nearly KILLED fly fishing for me. The experience with each is forever locked into my memory, and it’s an honor to share them with you:
There’s a strong likelihood that this steelhead (seen here being “petted” by Angelo!) took a Micro Mop fly, a smaller version of the original. This jig fly is great to use with fish that see it all, including those in pressured tailwaters, spring creeks, and delayed harvest sections with special regulations.
Mop Fly: I still remember the first time I went steelhead fishing with this pattern, a light pink Mop tied on a jig hook. After a great cast, two steelhead charged the fly, with one beating out to the other. From that point on, this fly became part of my arsenal for trout, steelhead, bass, perch, and more! Mop Fly YouTube video
Sucker Spawn: This is a unique fly that I originally tied for steelhead in the winter, but when I saw a golden rainbow trout one spring, I went with the Sucker Spawn! After the trout ate this fly, I almost felt guilty and didn’t use the fly for a number of years. Returning to it today, the fly is a winner for me, and I love to tie it on a jig hook. Want to see a SECRET version? View it at the end of the tying section on this video: YouTube Sucker Spawn
Black Ghost: A streamer can almost kill fly fishing?!? This one has nearly done so multiple times. I have had many positive experiences fishing with this fly, from crappies in the spring to stocked trout that can’t say no. The Black Ghost is also very popular in Iceland, and for good reason…fish love it! Black Ghost YouTube video
There are many versions of the Black Ghost, but my favorite includes a white marabou wing with peacock swords over top. This has been a deadly pattern for me over the years, and one that my Uncle John doesn’t like talking about (p.s. please don’t tell him I have a YouTube video of it!).
Do I expect to repeat any of these experiences in the future? Of course not! The fish will still find these patterns irresistible at times, but the point is to find and enjoy new opportunities when fly fishing…with new flies. Most importantly, will any of them KILL fly fishing for me? Absolutely not, they’ll only further enhance my love for the sport.
Now it’s your turn, please share below an experience that is forever etched into your mind. Type of fish, fly, surroundings, anything that’s important. Let’s have fun and learn from each other, and remember, there is NO fly that can kill fly fishing!
This video went viral, with over 50,000 views in what seemed like overnight! Why that popularity? People are always looking for that SECRET fly that catches all of the fish! View this video here: YouTube