False albacore are notorious for being picky eaters at times. This is when an angler has to get creative with their presentation in order to entice a finicky albie. One of Capt. Mikes “secret” techniques for this scenario is a take on the casting egg and fly presentation. Instead of a casting egg, Capt. Mike prefers a clear Hogy Charter Grade Popper. And for his fly, the new Hogy Protail fly. The Pop N’ Fly is a deadly technique for when these fish seem like they just wont eat!
The Protail Flys are designed to imitate micro-forage with an ultra-life-like swimming action and profile. Several years in the making, the Hogy Protail Fly has deep roots from Capt. Mike’s time as an Orvis-endorsed fly fishing guide on Cape Cod. These heavy-duty softbait flys are made with the same durable soft plastic as our popular pre-rigged Protail Series.
Outfit
Rod: 7′ St. Croix Legend Tournament
Reel: Shimano Saragosa 5000
Line: 20lb Braid
Leader: 15lb Fluoro
Lure: Hogy Lures Clear 5.5″ Charter Grade Popper (Hookless) & Hogy Lures Protail Fly
APPROACH:
1. Once the surface activity has been located, slowly motor to the outside edge of the feeding area, making sure to quietly approach the school.
2. Make a long cast towards the outside edge of the surface activity.
3. Use a slow, sharp twitching motion for surface popping action. Utilize occasional 5-10 second pauses for finicky fish.
TIPS:
1. When albies are spread out and holding deep working poppers on the surface can bring them up from the depths.
2. Use a variety of retrieves from a slow pop and stop, to a fast “scoot” and walk the dog style retrieve.
3. Protail Flies are perfect for traditional fly fishing presentations!
