Hollow flies are a staple in saltwater fly fishing, celebrated for their lifelike movement and big profile. These flies, pioneered by Bob Popovic, continue to dominate the fly fishing scene thanks to their effectiveness and versatility. If you’re ready to dive into the art of tying hollow flies, this comprehensive step-by-step guide is for you.
Why Hollow Flies?
Hollow flies mimic baitfish with a unique profile and exceptional water-pushing action. Their sparse construction ensures they’re lightweight and easy to cast, even on lighter lines. Perfect for spring and fall fishing, these flies shine in saltwater environments, attracting predators like striped bass and bluefish.
Materials You’ll Need
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Hook: Ahrex Beast Fly Hook in size 4/0 (or size suited to your target species).
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Thread: White Danville 210 thread.
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Bucktail: White, with varied lengths for tapering.
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Hackles: White saddles for tail movement.
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Flash:
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Ostrich Herl: White for a natural flow.
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Push Tool: An empty pen or a specialized push tool.
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Clips: Hair clips to manage fibers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Build the Thread Base
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Attach your white thread to the hook shank.
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Wrap a secure layer of thread from the hook eye to just behind the hook point.

Step 2: Create the Tail Foundation
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Cut a small chunk of bucktail and remove short fibers, keeping the longer ones.
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Tie the bucktail onto the hook shank in a 360° wrap to form a cushion for the hackles.

Step 3: Add the Hackles
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Select two white hackles and stagger their tips slightly for a natural appearance.
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Tie one hackle on each side of the hook shank, securing them with loose wraps.
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Pull the stems forward to lock the hackles in place, then trim the excess stems.

Step 4: Incorporate Flash
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Attach two strands of lateral flash along each side of the hook shank.
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Double over the flash for extra security and ensure it’s aligned with the hook shank.

Step 5: First Hollow Tie
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Cut a sparse amount of bucktail, removing any short fibers.
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Measure and taper the length slightly shorter than the tail.
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Tie the bucktail perpendicular to the hook shank using loose wraps. Push and pinch to distribute evenly.
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Use the push tool to flare the bucktail back and secure it with a thread dam.

Step 6: Add Flash and Ostrich Herl
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Lay a small amount of wing flash on top of the bucktail and secure it.

2. Add 5-6 strands of white ostrich herl, ensuring the tips taper with the bucktail.
Step 7: Repeat Hollow Ties
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Alternate between layers of bucktail, flash, and ostrich herl to build the fly’s body.
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Gradually increase the amount of bucktail with each tie, while shortening the length to create a smooth taper.
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Use the push tool to evenly distribute the bucktail and maintain the desired shape.

Step 8: Final Tie and Head Construction
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For the head, use a dense, fluffy section of bucktail (sometimes referred to as Bambi hair).
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Measure the length slightly shorter than the previous tie.
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Secure the bucktail around the hook eye using loose wraps, then flare it back with the push tool.
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Build a clean thread dam at the hook eye for a polished finish.

Step 9: Whip Finish and Shape
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Perform a whip finish to secure the thread, and trim off any excess.
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Rinse the fly under cold water to shape it and let it dry.
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Adjust the fibers for your desired profile.

Fishing Tips for Hollow Flies
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Seasonal Use: Best during spring and fall when baitfish are abundant.
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Target Species: Effective for striped bass, bluefish, and other saltwater predators.
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Casting: Use a 10-weight rod for optimal performance and easy casting.
FAQs About Hollow Fly Tying
Q: What makes hollow flies unique? A: Hollow flies are lightweight, lifelike, and create a large profile in the water. Their movement mimics baitfish, making them irresistible to predatory fish.
Q: Can beginners tie hollow flies? A: Yes! While it might seem tricky at first, with patience and practice, even beginners can master hollow fly tying. Trust the process and take your time.
Q: What’s the key to a good hollow fly? A: A well-tapered body, evenly distributed bucktail, and a clean thread dam are essential for creating a durable, effective fly.
Final Thoughts
Tying hollow flies is both an art and a science. With practice, you’ll create stunning flies that perform exceptionally on the water. Remember, it’s all about the taper, clean wraps, and trusting the process. Ready to tie your own hollow flies? Gather your materials and start creating today!
Let us know your thoughts in the comments. Tight lines!
Pete
febrero 02, 2025
Very nice job. Thank you.