The Hippie Stomper: A Fly Fishing Marvel by Andrew Grillos
Fly fishing enthusiasts, listen up! If you haven't yet experienced the magic of the Hippie Stomper, you're in for a treat. Crafted by the skilled hands of Umpqua Signature Tyer Andrew Grillos, this fly is not just a piece of tackle; it's a work of art that has set the waters ablaze.
Unrivaled Origin:
Let's dive into the origins of the Hippie Stomper. Born on the Gunnison River in the 1990s, this foam creation was initially inspired by a humorous encounter between Grillos's friend and mentor, Chris Mortimer. Picture this: beginners from California, wide-eyed and curious, asked Mortimer about catch-and-release techniques. His deadpan response? "Drag the fish up on the sand, give it the old hippie stomp, yank the hook out, and kick it back to the water." Hilarity ensued, and the name Hippie Stomper was born.
Foam Evolution:
The Hippie Stomper has undergone years of fine-tuning, reaching its peak during Grillos's guiding days in Chile in 2008-2009. It is a foam reincarnation of the Elk Hair Humpy, designed to float superbly and be extra visible, especially for older anglers. The fly's durability and visibility make it a top choice for the Driftless Area, where it's become a staple, thanks to Mat and Geri at the Driftless Angler.
Tying the Stomper:
Tying the Hippie Stomper requires a touch of finesse. Grillos aimed for simplicity without sacrificing effectiveness. The foam body, available in a spectrum of colors, gives it unsinkable buoyancy. Sizes range from 12 to 16, with larger variations for different conditions. While not the easiest tie, it's manageable for the intermediate-tier, offering versatility and effectiveness.
Fishing Finesse:
Now, let's talk strategy. The Hippie Stomper shines in the "hopper and dropper" rig, but don't limit its potential. Grillos's favorite colors, in order, are purple, pink, black, red, and royal. Sizes 14 and 16 are go-to choices, but don't shy away from 12 or even 18 when the situation demands. May through the end of the season is prime time, especially when terrestrial insects dominate. Cast close to the banks, drop a nymph if needed, and let the Hippie Stomper work its magic.
The Driftless Connection:
The marriage between the Hippie Stomper and the Driftless Area is a match made in fishing heaven. This versatile fly, designed for the discerning angler, has become a best-seller at Driftless Angler, and rightly so. Its visibility, combined with the eager risers of Driftless streams, makes for an irresistible combination.
In the Words of Grillos:
According to Grillos, the Hippie Stomper is not just a fly; it's an experience. Its name may induce laughter, but its effectiveness is no joke. As one tough fly for one tough man, it has stood the test of time and changing waters.
Conclusion:
In the world of fly fishing, where innovation meets tradition, the Hippie Stomper is a testament to the creativity and passion of fly tiers like Andrew Grillos. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice exploring the art of fly fishing, don't overlook the Hippie Stomper-it's not just a fly; it's a story, a legacy, and above all, a reliable companion on the water. So, gear up, tie one on, and let the Hippie Stomper dance on the surface, creating ripples of excitement in its wake. Happy fishing!
Hook: TMC 3761 or Nymph hook 2X, Sizes #12-#18 (Sizes 6 to 18).
Thread: Black 70 denier or 6/0 or 8/0.
Tail: Moose body hair or Elk Hair.
Overbody: 2 layers of foam - 2mm black on top, 1mm green as an underbody underneath.
Underbody: Flashabou.
Wing: Z-lon dun or white.
Hackle: Grizzly.
Legs: Fine round rubber, barred.
This meticulous recipe ensures the Hippie Stomper retains its enticing allure and effectiveness. Tie it with care, and let it become the secret weapon in your fly fishing arsenal. Happy tying and tight lines!
Негізгі бет Hippie Stomper - Fly Tying Tutorial
Пікірлер: 4