How to Tie Bass Poppers

Fly fishing for bass often requires the use of a "popper" style fly. Poppers get the name from the noise made when they hit the water. Bass are attracted to the crackling noise, and are enticed to strike. Tying your own bass popper is a sure way to get the right colors and patterns for your particular bass pond or lake. As most fly fishermen attest, there is a satisfaction in tying your own flies.

Things You'll Need

  • Size 4 fly hook
  • Wax thread
  • Black saddle hackle
  • Black marabou
  • Popper body
  • Eyes (3d molds)
  • Epoxy
  • White rubber legs
  • Fly vise tool
  • Clippers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the size 4 hook into the fly tying vise with the hook facing up and in. Cork the end with a small fly cork to prevent snags or cuts.

    • 2

      Thread a small bunch of marabou feathers at the bottom shank on the hook, near the curve. Use whatever color marabou you feel is proper for your bass lake. Black is always a good default. Wrap the marabou onto the hook with the wax thread.

    • 3

      Place two sets of two black hackle feathers facing out from the marabou. Keep two feathers on either side of the hook and wrap them to the shank with the wax thread.

    • 4

      Fluff the hackle feathers up and toward the top of the shank so it resembles a hood. Push the white rubber legs down the length of the hook shaft until they hit the hackles and marabou. Wrap them onto the shank with the wax thread.

    • 5

      Push the foam head cork up and onto the top of the shaft so it is next to the legs and marabou. Glue the eyes onto the foam.

    • 6

      Trim excess thread off the fly and remove it from the vise.