HOPPER TIME!
Summer time heat isn’t all bad. Some amazing fishing can be had on hoppers this time of year. Surface fishing is about as exciting as it can get. Watching a fish come up and do a back flip for a little floating foam and rubber leg creature will certainly make your heart race! Here are just a few tips to remember when trying to get in on the action:
Keep your leader short and made of mono. You want the fly to float high and make a big slap when it hits the water.
Stay close to the bank, especially grassy banks with shallow water next to them. Once your fly hits on the bank, give it a few twitches. If nothing happens, make a new cast. Color can be an important factor in fishing hoppers as it can with streamer fishing. Pick a color and fish it for a ten minutes. If nothing happens, change to a contrasting color. When picking your tippet, don’t be afraid to go stout. Four and 5x should not even be an option because they will do nothing but spin and twist. I usually go 3x mono. The mono floats higher and keeps your drift drag free longer. These are just a few quick tips to help you get started! Dig your heels in and have some fun!