In this week’s “How to Tie” video feature, the Ole Florida Fly Shop ties a tarpon fly accessible to tyers of all skill levels, the Tarpon Snake.
Learn About This Fly:
Difficulty: Easy
Recently, in this series, we have been tying numerous winter fly patterns to help anglers get on the water. Although this is helpful(hopefully), turning our heads south on the map can bring even the biggest winter scrouge a smile. The thought of exotic species and travel can turn the creative juices on the vise and get anglers excited for warmer times to come. Tarpon season in the United States is still several months away, and there’s no better way to spend a cold day than tying up a batch of Tarpon Snakes and checking travel prices.
For many tyers, saltwater patterns are often easier to master than their freshwater counterparts. Trout flies can require exceptional eyesight and dexterity, a luxury that not everyone is blessed with. Larger hooks and less precision needed allow tyers of many skill levels to quickly tie a wide variety of saltwater patterns. The Tarpon Snake is a pattern that adopts a simple ingredients list and tying procedure, making it a fantastic beginner tarpon fly.
When it comes to chasing tarpon, prepare to size up. These fish demand respect and will destroy gear that is unworthy. A reel with a good drag system is a necessity, and rods ranging from 10-12wt are often your best bet. When traveling for a saltwater trip, it is always smart to consult a local fly shop for exact gear. The Tarpon Snake is a fly that will come easy to novice tyers and keep those unable to get on the water entertained this winter.
Ingredients:
- Hook: Tiemco 600SP – 1/0 12pk
- Thread: Ultra Thread 210 Denier – Black
- Eyes: Bead Chain Eyes – XL Silver
- Flash: Krystal Flash – UV Purple
- Body: Schlappen 5-7 Inch – Black
Now you know how to tie the Tarpon Snake!
Video and ingredients courtesy of the Ole Florida Fly Shop.
