Smallmouth Bass Flies Top to Bottom - Jake Villwock
We are proud to introduce this new book from our very own Jake Villwock, who has been part of the TCO Family for over 13 years.
Smallmouth bass swims in lakes and rivers across the United States and Canada and are a premier fly-rod game fish in almost every way—they take flies readily, feed on diverse foods for a long period of time, tolerate higher water temperatures than trout, and fight harder than any other North American freshwater fish their size. This is the first book dedicated to the best modern flies for these fish that includes both detailed step-by-step tying instructions as well as top patterns and recipes for flies that cover the complete water column, from top to bottom. With over 500 full-color step-by-step images and 300 patterns by today’s top tiers from around the country, this book is the definitive resource for smallmouth bass.
Fly Tying from a Pro Guide
More than a How-To Manual
“As a guide I design flies to solve a problem, to trigger a fish to strike, to keep the fly where I need it for as long as I need it. With each tutorial you will learn about how and why that fly was designed. Through my observations and research, I have done the ‘homework,’ digging deeper into the why and how it relates to each species a smallmouth forages on. Clear the tying table, get the vise out, and have some fun.” — Jake Villwock, pages 2-3
The Best Equipment and Tying Tools
Choosing your fly fishing equipment depends not only on the day’s conditions but your casting style and speed of your rod. There are also seasonal changes to consider, and a variety of tools you’ll need for tying. Before diving into specific ties, Jake Villwock will walk you through some of his favorite equipment and personal leader formulas.
Flies for Every Depth and Condition
Surface Flies Example – Rock Star Popper
Topped with a mohawk-like sight, the Rock Star Popper is perfect for tracking in the lower evening light. A fun and semi-simple fly to tie, bass love it and its size can be easily adapted to your casting style.
Mid-Column Flies Example – All You Can Eat Sculpin
Originally designed for fly fishing trout, this tie has a great side-to-side gliding motion while still keeping the sculpin taper and profile. UV glue under the head serves as a lip and allows the fly to dig in and dive when stripped aggressively, and dense makeup helps push water up and over it.
Bottom Flies Example – Krafty Crittermite
A variation of a tried-and-true pattern, this hellgrammite fly is durable, making use of suede and Wooly Critter Brush. Lead eyes tied on the top of the hook shank helps keep the hook point up and out of rocks and wood. Easily customize the color for a fun change of pace, it might be key for a day with rough conditions!