This Tim Flager [tightlinevideos] photo explores the advantages of tube flies over traditional flies. He discusses how tube flies offer leverage for anglers, reduce tail-biting, and allow easy hook replacement. Flagler also highlights how tube flies can be used with a variety of hook sizes, making them versatile for different fishing situations. He clearly explores the advantages of tube flies over traditional flies.
Across various regions in the US and Canada, the rising number of tube-fly enthusiasts suggests that the technique is gaining popularity, especially among younger anglers and those eager to broaden their skills.
Henry Clement, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, August 2023.j,
By Henry Clement
There’s no doubt about it: landlines work. But let’s be honest — their limitations are significant
The advantages of tube flies over hook-tied flies are clear. Opting to tie and fish tube flies is a smart step forward in nearly every aspect, making their benefits impossible to ignore.
Why?
For example, tube flies are easier to tie (see video below). Most anglers understand the advantages of reverse tying:
The tail sits at the eye, creating a more robust fly profile that prevents marabou from flattening when folded back. It also displaces more water effectively, and the raised spine with a streamlined tail has been proven (by angler reports) to be more attractive to trout, salmon, and other game fish.
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More advantages of tube flies include:
- The orientation of a tube fly can be adjusted by the angler while fishing.
- The hook can be replaced if damaged.
- The fly isn’t lost, unlike hook-tied flies.
- Tying a tube fly is simpler because the hook doesn’t get in the way.
- A tube fly lasts longer because it rides up the leader when a fish is hooked. Only the hook directly connects to the fish, removing the leverage disadvantage of the whole fly.
Numerous other benefits favor the use of tube flies. Whether you’re new to fly tying or experienced, transitioning to tube flies is straightforward (techniques are the same) and even easier. Plus, they’re simpler to cast because “the hook” no longer dictates the length, weight, durability, or castability of the fly, or favors the fish’s leverage during fights.
Adult steelhead trout watercolor illustration by award-winning artist Thom Glace.
Below, HMH Pro Staff Rick Kustich explains the benefits of reverse tying and its special application to tube fly tying and angling.
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