In this week’s “How to Tie” video feature, Piscator Flies ties a classic tarpon pattern that every angler should be loading up their flats box with this week, the Black Death.
Learn About This Fly:
Difficulty: Easy
In the spirit of Tarpon Week, I figured it would only be right to choose a fly that tyers of any level could not only tie with ease, but master. There may be no sight that has drawn more anglers to saltwater fly fishing quite like a jumping tarpon. From their immense size to alien like features, they truly are a unique species that have ruined countless marriages and made lifelong memories. Sight fishing for tarpon in Florida is a way of life for many anglers and guides but it is also a rare resource that needs to be protected at all costs. Passion fuels protection and if you want to get more people rallying behind the cause, have them tie the Black Death and chase their first silver king.
For any tarpon fly, the most important aspect is having a hook that is both sharp and strong. Without these, you won’t stand a chance of landing one of these behemoths. A tarpon’s mouth is boney making a powerful hookset, paired with a sharp hook, imperative. From there, the strength of the hook will be tested by the personality of the fish, leaving you at the full mercy of however many jumps and runs they have in the tank. The Black Death has the strength to endure these fish, but you’ll have to make sure the proportions and presentation are good enough for them to eat in the first place.
When targeting tarpon, make sure your knots are strong because they will not show forgiveness once hooked. As the line shoots out of your guides, you’ll also need to make sure to clear it from wrapping around your toes, butt end of the rod, and any other small item that fly line is naturally drawn to. Sight fishing for this species is a privilege and something to be cherished, especially if you are one of the lucky ones that get to feel their power. Only tie the Black Death if you are ready to respect the tarpon and waters they live because there is no room for treating the silver king like anything but royalty anymore.
Ingredients:
- Hook: Gamakatsu CS15 #1/0-4/0
- Thread: Black 210D FWN
- Tail: Nayat hair black
- Flash: Red mylar flash (Flashabou)
- Collar: Red rabbit zonker
- Head: Black thread to eye tapered into the collar
- Eyes: Silver or white with a black pupil (can also use holographic eyes or dumbells)
- Coating: Bone Dry UV coated on head x2
Now you know how to tie the Black Death!
Video and ingredients courtesy of Piscator Flies.
