Fly fishing in rivers can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience, but choosing the right fishing lure can often make or break a trip. Among the wide variety of lures available, popper fishing lures stand out, especially when it comes to fly fishing. Poppers are designed to make noise and splash on the water’s surface, attracting fish by simulating the movement of distressed prey. These lures can be incredibly effective for targeting species like trout, bass, and other river-dwelling fish, making them a popular choice among fly fishers.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the top-rated popper fishing lures for fly fishing in rivers, how to use them, and provide practical tips for getting the best results. Whether you’re a seasoned fly fisher or just starting, this guide will help you enhance your fly fishing game.
What Are Popper Fishing Lures?
Before diving into the specifics of using popper lures for fly fishing, let’s first define what they are and why they’re effective in river fishing.
A popper fishing lure is a type of surface lure typically used to attract fish by creating a popping or splashing sound when retrieved through the water. The concave face of the popper creates an air pocket that produces the signature “pop” when the lure is pulled along the water’s surface. The popping sound and splash resemble an injured fish or other prey struggling, triggering predatory instincts in fish like bass and trout.
Popper lures are especially effective for topwater fishing, where the fish are hunting near the surface. For fly fishing in rivers, these lures offer a highly visual and exciting experience, as you can often see the fish strike the lure on the surface of the water.
Why Use Poppers for Fly Fishing in Rivers?
Popper fishing lures are particularly effective in river environments for several reasons:
Surface Action: The popping and splashing action attracts fish from a distance. This is ideal for rivers with clear water, where fish are often found feeding near the surface.
Attracts a Wide Range of Species: Poppers are effective for catching a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and panfish, all of which are commonly found in rivers.
Highly Visual: Watching a fish strike the popper on the surface is an exciting and rewarding experience. The visual nature of popper fishing is particularly appealing for beginner anglers.
Effective in Shallow Waters: Poppers work best in shallow rivers where fish are actively feeding near the surface. Rivers with submerged rocks, fallen trees, or weedy areas are ideal spots for popper fishing.
Adaptable to Various Water Conditions: Poppers can be used in both calm and choppy river conditions, making them a versatile tool in any fly fisher’s arsenal.
Top Rated Popper Fishing Lures for Fly Fishing in Rivers
Here are some top-rated popper fishing lures that stand out for their performance, durability, and effectiveness in river fishing. These lures are suitable for beginners and experienced fly fishers alike.
1. LureBolt Custom Popper Lure for Fly Fishing
Overview:
LureBolt’s Custom Popper Lure for Fly Fishing is an excellent option for river anglers looking for a high-performance, handmade popper. Known for its durability and customization options, this popper can be adapted for a variety of river conditions.
Material: High-quality wooden body with a durable, water-resistant finish that ensures long-lasting performance in saltwater and freshwater rivers.
Design: Features a concave face that produces an attractive popping sound when retrieved, mimicking distressed prey.
Colors: Available in several vibrant colors like chartreuse, white, and yellow, ideal for attracting fish in various river conditions.
Size: The LureBolt custom popper comes in different sizes, making it suitable for both small and large fish species in rivers.
How to Use:
This popper works best with a jerk-and-pause retrieval method. Cast the popper to areas with structure or near the river’s surface and perform a series of quick, sharp jerks to create the popping action. Allow the lure to sit for a second before repeating the process.
Price: $8 – $12 per lure.
2. Orvis Clear Creek Popper
Overview:
The Orvis Clear Creek Popper is a well-known, high-quality popper that excels in river fishing. With a classic design and premium construction, it’s perfect for fly fishing enthusiasts targeting trout and bass.
Material: Made with a lightweight foam body for easy casting and quick retrieval.
Design: The large, cupped face creates a loud, attention-grabbing pop and splash.
Colors: Available in natural colors like green, brown, and black that blend well with river environments.
Hook: Features a strong, sharp hook for secure hooksets and reliable catch rates.
How to Use:
This popper is ideal for slow, steady retrievals. Cast it into shallow pools, eddies, or near submerged rocks, and retrieve it with quick, consistent jerks. The Clear Creek Popper’s large face helps it stand out in both clear and murky water.
Price: $10 – $15 per lure.
3. Tiemco Dry Fly Popper
Overview:
The Tiemco Dry Fly Popper is a lightweight, high-quality fly fishing popper that performs exceptionally well in river conditions. Its unique design and precision craftsmanship make it a favorite among experienced anglers.
Material: Crafted with foam and synthetic materials, making it durable yet lightweight for easy handling.
Design: Features a sleek body and a small concave face for subtle popping action. The popper creates a softer splash, making it ideal for cautious fish.
Colors: Available in a variety of natural patterns, including brown, tan, and black, which work well in both clear and slightly murky river waters.
How to Use:
The Tiemco Dry Fly Popper is best used with a gentle retrieve, especially in calm water. Cast it near structure and let it float naturally. Add a few small twitches to create a subtle surface disturbance that entices trout and bass to strike.
Price: $7 – $11 per lure.
4. RIO Gold Popper
Overview:
The RIO Gold Popper is a top-rated popper known for its robust construction and superior performance in river fishing. It’s designed for both beginners and seasoned fly fishers looking for a reliable topwater lure.
Material: Made with a sturdy plastic body that is both lightweight and durable, designed to withstand repeated use.
Design: The concave head provides a louder pop, making it ideal for murky or low-light conditions.
Colors: Available in vibrant colors like yellow, orange, and chartreuse to ensure high visibility in various river conditions.
How to Use:
For the RIO Gold Popper, use a steady retrieve with occasional pauses. The loud popping sound is particularly effective in murky or choppy water, where fish are attracted to the noise. Cast near cover or structures and vary your retrieve speed to find the most effective technique.
Price: $9 – $14 per lure.
How to Use Popper Fishing Lures for Fly Fishing in Rivers
Using popper fishing lures in rivers requires a few specific techniques to ensure you get the most out of your lure. Below are some tips for beginners on how to properly use popper lures when fly fishing in rivers.
1. Choose the Right Time and Place
Best Time: The best times to use popper fishing lures are early in the morning or late in the evening when fish are more likely to be feeding near the surface.
Ideal Locations: Cast your popper near shallow pools, riffles, and eddies, where trout and other river fish tend to feed. Structures like submerged rocks, logs, and overhanging branches are perfect spots for casting.
2. Use a Steady, Controlled Retrieve
The most effective way to use popper lures is with a steady, controlled retrieve. Cast the lure, and then retrieve it in sharp, rhythmic jerks to create the popping action. After each pop, allow the lure to sit for a moment before jerking again. This mimics an injured fish struggling on the surface, which attracts predatory fish.
For clear water, use a slower retrieve for a subtle presentation.
For murky water, a faster, more aggressive retrieve may work better, creating a larger disturbance to draw fish in.
3. Experiment with Different Speeds
Not all fish react the same way to the same speed. If you’re not getting bites with one speed, try slowing down or speeding up your retrieve. You may need to adjust your technique depending on the species of fish you’re targeting and the conditions in the river.
Where to Buy the Best Popper Fishing Lures for Fly Fishing
If you’re ready to try popper fishing lures for your next fly fishing trip in a river, LureBolt offers a selection of high-quality lures designed for durability, performance, and customization. Our handmade poppers are perfect for both beginners and seasoned anglers, providing the right action to attract trout and other river species.
Visit LureBolt.com to check out our selection and gear up for your next fly fishing adventure!
Conclusion
Popper fishing lures are a fantastic choice for fly fishing in rivers, offering excitement, effectiveness, and versatility. Whether you’re using the LureBolt Custom Popper, the Orvis Clear Creek Popper, or the Tiemco Dry Fly Popper, these lures will help you catch more fish while enhancing your fishing experience. By understanding the best techniques and selecting the right lure for your river conditions, you’ll be well on your way to a successful day on the water.
For the best selection of popper fishing lures, visit LureBolt.com and start fishing like a pro today!