First Popper with Success!

[The Coles]

I took some time this afternoon to tie up a couple of my first-ever Miyakawa's Beach Popper fly and though they are a bit rugged looking, gave them a try anyway on the fishes here in Totten Inlet. All I can say is, wow!  I fished maybe all of 45 minutes as I was losing light during the flood... I had numerous takes, at least three LDRs and two landed.  I'm a believer now!  I need to work on my tying technique a bit because, as I said, the ones I tied aren't near perfect.  Luckily I had most of the materials on hand that were needed but I have to figure out a better method of tying in the stinger hook mono so that the hook rides the way it should.  Also, I had some problems with the mounting/alignment of the first of the two popper heads I used as I was in a hurry, misjudged the rigidness of the styro and cracked the head when seating it on the hook shank.  I still fished it and it didn't seem to trouble the fish.  These flies are just a hoot! You can watch the pursuit as you retrieve... the fish just don't quit once they have the fly locked on.  Now I am wondering about variations.  Anyhow, just thought I'd pass these thoughts along and say "Thanks Leland!"   Steve Cole