Pike Flies/Jig Flies

[Deleted]

Having got more into pike fly fishing over the last couple of years, I decided to have a go at tying my own flies.

I put some kit together with a little help from some friends and a few weeks ago set about tying flies and weighted (jig) flies.

I surprised myself and started to produce some decent baits which not only looked good (in my opinion), but more importantly catch fish. I am addicted now and love tying them and coming up with new styles.

I thought I would share a few of my creations with the group :















Ian

[deerphil]

I can see why they are catching pike Ian, lovely job !
Absolutely love my Pike fly fishing - it is very addictive isn't it.
Tying a few of your own flies just adds to the game. I tried a surface frog
pattern last week - it didn't look much , but it worked, made from deer hair though
and the pike destroyed it.
Your perch fly looks stunning, what material did you use for that one ?

[Deleted]

Thanks for the kind words. It is a very addictive way of fishing as is the actual tying. I also like using the jig flies when conditions make fly fishing difficult or impossible. The jig flies I use with a fast action 7' rod rated 6 to 25g. Enough backbone to set the hook whilst casting the jig flies well and providing entertaining sport.

The small perch fly was tied using Jerkbaitmania Pke Skinz as is the little trout pattern.

The rest where tied using synthetic jumbo braid material.

Thought it might be a bit early for surface baits. I have some plastazote foam I am thinking of using to make some poppers.

I do have some deer hair frogs tied by Martin Smith which are stunning. Scared to use them as they are works of art lol!

I would love to tie more using feathers, but they are so expensive and Ive already shelled out enough on a vice and all the required tools and materials.

Ian

[Izzetafox]

Nice work Ian.

Me and Daz are going to have a serious go at Rutland this Summer on the fly for pike.

Terry

[Deleted]

Keep me informed of any planned trips please Terry. Got all geared up for Zander then in the end didn't really fancy it.

Would much rather have a go for the pike on the fly though!

Ian

[philpot]

Now you need some good poppers for the best top water action you will ever have Ian. These are two that have caught quite a few pike.





I made a few with larger foam heads and whilst they are a pig to cast, boy did they work. Ask Pete who the Danish fly tying guy is and get onto his youtube channel as he sells some of the best foam heads you can buy. Mine were all from the USA but I think he has the same ones.

You have done a cracking job with those flies Ian mate, well done that man.

Phil

[Izzetafox]

Ian,

The Pike Fly season starts 16th May I think.
We will be heading over as soon as possible after that. Apparently they take a few zeds on flies in the shallows there too.

Terry

[Deleted]

Sounds good Terry. I better start tying some more baitfish patterns in anticipation.

[Deleted]

Cheers Phil.

Finding decent popper bodies isn't easy. I have some plastazote foam so will have a go at shaping some myself. The other problem I am having is the cost of decent feathers. I wish I was tying when you was selling your tying gear mate!

[shadstu64]

looking exelent ian well done ...i told you its like a drug when you tye/catch on your own creations !!

[Deleted]

A couple of different colour variation jig flies tied up for Philpot to try when we can pencil in a day on the bank. The photo doesn't do the top one justice. It looks sweet and I was tempted to keep it for myself lol!

[greygoose]

Look very good , your going to be to busy to fish if you get addicted to tying! Do you fly the foam poppers ? I would find them very hard to get out ,practise makes perfect ( or better anyway) I suppose.

[Deleted]

I was starting to get a bit addicted, but have calmed down a bit now. I just tie now when the mood catches me or if I have a brainwave lol.

I'm looking at tying some pike poppers, but am currently struggling to find large bodies in the UK. I am going to try to fashion some bodies out of plastazote foam. I haven't tried casting any poppers but can imagine them to be quite difficult to get out. Philpot and Terry have used poppers so would have a better idea on how they cast.

Pike fly casting isn't easy even with normal pike flies is it? It is particularly difficult when windy or where you have casting restrictions. That is where the weighted jig flies come into their own. Easier to use when windy or in restricted areas using a fixed spool set up. They are also a great option for anyone who doesn't fly fish. Plus they really do catch a lot of fish.

Ian

[Izzetafox]

Casting poppers can be a challenge especially on windy days..

I think personally that it is critical to be casting them on a decent line that can "pull" poppers through the air. I use a Rio Outbound Short. Not cheap but helps me no end.

Terry

[philpot]

Apr 11, 2017 8:21:29 GMT Izzetafox said:

Casting poppers can be a challenge especially on windy days..

I think personally that it is critical to be casting them on a decent line that can "pull" poppers through the air. I use a Rio Outbound Short. Not cheap but helps me no end.

Terry

100% agree Terry. When on the water with boat or kayak, it is not so much of an issue but from the bank...............ooooh not so easy.

Phil

[theomen]

I use Rio outbound short on my 8wt and when I get a 10wt I'll be buying about outbound short for that aswel. I can cast almost the full line off one back cast. Doesn't need much out the tip to load the rod so Ideal casting from the seated position or with little room to back cast.

[philpot]

The RIO Outbound short is now the 'go to' line for pike fly anglers and the Floating/sink tip is superb. It casts like a dream, I am reading and typing this and thinking, 'wish I hadn't sold my outfit' ah well.

Phil

[deerphil]

Apr 12, 2017 15:26:21 GMT philpot said:

The RIO Outbound short is now the 'go to' line for pike fly anglers and the Floating/sink tip is superb. It casts like a dream, I am reading and typing this and thinking, 'wish I hadn't sold my outfit' ah well.

Phil

Yes Phil , it is a shame, you would have been coming over to see me soon.

[philpot]

I was only thinking that today Phil..........................lures ........................ from the bank ?


Phil

[deerphil]

PM sent Phil