Following on from the fly dropper post I wanted to cover off which flies have worked best on our 2011 > 2013 trips.

Depth:  When you’re fishing a lure with a fly dropped on or near the surface a Lefty’s deceiver or a clouser minnow are good tried and tested flies.  The clouser may have the edge when fishing slowly on the surface as it’s weighted and sinks just under the surface making it more visible.

When bouncing a heavy shad off the sea bed on the drift, another option is a large prawn pattern.

Colour:  When fishing deep you’ll need light coloured flies to increase the chance of bass seeing them.  Light green is my favourite.  At the other extreme on a sunny day when surface fishing using a black fly is preferred as the contrast makes it easier for the bass to spot.

Don’t use single mackerel feathers as unless a blitz is on most bass are just too smart to take them.  Spend £3 > £5 on some large good quality saltwater flies and keep them sharp.  You’ll soon be catching bass you wouldn’t on just a lure and double hook-ups will happen.