Another quick change pattern that I tie for LM Bass

[James Smith]

This is another example of what I call a "system" pattern that allows me to change out the tails on a topwater pattern to give it a new/different look in about 30 seconds. The fish is carved from two thin pieces of Balsa Wood. I cut in a slot to add a diving bill made from clear Polycarbonate material. I cut a groove in the wood to accommodate the shaft of the hook and tied in a size one Mustad Fastach quick change clip. I also make this pattern with just the training hook which I attach in the hook-up position to avoid foul-hooking weeds and twigs. Sandwich in the hook with the Fastact tied on, sand to shape, color with markers, and add some glittery nail polish, a 3D eye, and a coat of Epoxy. This pattern floats "face" down to imitate a wounded prey item, in this case, a baby Bluegill. I enjoy making the Balsa "bug" and patterns that use the Mustad Fastach clips gives me lots of flexibility with very little effort. Feel free to ask any questions you may have. https://gifyu.com/image/SI9v5 Jim Smith

[ScottP]

James,The folks from Rapala are going to come knocking on your door late some night; don?t answer! That?s a cool fly.Regards,Scott

[johnstoeckel]

Very innovative Jim.

[James Smith]

Thanks, John. I started carving poppers and sliders from Balsa wood about six weeks ago and really enjoy making them. It gives me lots more options for creative ways to make fly fishing lures for the LM Bass here in Florida.

[James Smith]

Thanks, John. Carving Balsa "bugs" is lots of fun and fairly easy as well.Jim

[john52948]

jom, who are you getting the lips from

[James Smith]

John, The lip on this one is simply clear Polycarbonate. I bought a 12" x 24" sheet of 1/32" think polycarbonate from Amazon for $9.99. It's cheap, easy to work with (I cut it with heavy-duty scissors) and for $10 I have enough for 2 or 3 lifetimes. On some of my other patterns, I use Fly Lips which you can find at many online fly shops. I find that adding lips gives them much more action and often is the difference between a strike or a pass.