Improving a Popper

[David, aka, "McScruff"]

Using poppers with a fly rod is pretty much a standard, but casting these flies can be awkward. The popper is light, relatively bulky, and usually festooned with feathers. This combination catches air and causes drag on the popper on the cast. The net effect is to hinder both control and distance. To remedy this, try this trick:

Drill a small hole in the belly of the popper, right at the center of gravity. Insert a small BB, or buckshot. Drilling the hole just undersize ensures the pellet will be a snug, squeeze fit, with no gluing needed.

The tiny bit of weight won't affect the poppers action on the water, but it will extend its casting range and directional stability.

- From "The Sports Afield Fishing Almanac," by Frank Golad

[John Sheehan]

yea man

[David, aka, "McScruff"]

I don't see why not.
Some solder poked into slots, most anything I suppose.

[John Sheehan]

great tip! Wonder about using a B sized split shot (Smaller than BB) making a hole with push pin