In the fly-fishing world, rigging to present multiple flies offers a fish a better chance to make a mistake and get a hook in its jaw.
When mountain trout are the targets, the hopper-and-dropper combo — a grasshopper pattern with a nymph or wet fly hanging below — is a staple that brings many fish to the hill.
Anglers targeting bluegills will quickly realize an unbelievable success rate by tying a wet fly right below their popping bug, especially when fish are in a less-than-cooperative mood.
Guide Mitchell Blake is a fan of topwater presentations, with a popping bug his first choice, but he will often trail his popping bug with a wet fly to increase his chances of success.
“If the bite is slow, adding a slow-sinking spider 12 inches behind it will make a major difference,” he said. “My go-to choice is a black spider with yellow legs or a black ant.”
The popping bug turns into an indicator, but it will catch fish at the same time.
“I make a quick twitch and let it sit while the spider slowly falls. Let the legs do their thing, and they can’t stand it,” he said.
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