Sailfish Fly

The Sailfish Fly by Fish-Skull is a modern, specialized pattern designed to target one of the fastest fish in the ocean. This fly uses a tube design rather than a traditional hook shank, which allows for better durability and hook-up ratios when fighting large billfish. It features the signature Double Barrel foam popper head that pushes a massive amount of water to grab the attention of predators. This pattern is a must-have for any bluewater angler heading offshore to chase sailfish on the fly.

What It Imitates

This pattern does not imitate one specific species of fish. Instead, it mimics the panic and commotion of a large baitfish fleeing on the surface. The large popping head creates a noise and bubble trail that looks like a wounded or escaping meal to a hungry billfish.

How To Use It

You fish this fly using the classic "tease and switch" method. The captain or mate trolls hookless teasers to bring the sailfish close to the boat. Once the fish is raised and excited, the mate pulls the teaser from the water, and you immediately cast the fly to the spot where the fish was. Strip the fly with hard, aggressive pops to make noise, then pause to let the fish eat. The tube design allows the fly to slide up the leader during the fight, which protects the fly from being destroyed by the bill of the fish.

When To Use It

Use this fly specifically for offshore saltwater fishing when targeting sailfish or marlin. It shines in open water where creating a disturbance is necessary to call fish in from a distance. It works best when fish are actively chasing teasers or balling bait on the surface.

Why We Like It

We like this fly because the tube construction solves many problems found in traditional billfish flies. Since the fly can slide up the leader, the fish cannot use the weight of the fly as leverage to throw the hook. The Double Barrel foam head is extremely durable and creates a distinct "pop" sound that triggers aggressive strikes. It is also lighter than some hard-plastic alternatives, making it easier to cast repeatedly.

Comparisons

Sailfish Fly vs. Cam Sigler Tube Popper:

The Cam Sigler Tube Popper is the traditional standard for sailfish and features a hard plastic cup face. The Fish-Skull Sailfish Fly uses a Double Barrel foam head instead of hard plastic. The foam head is softer, which feels more natural to the fish when they bite, potentially leading to longer holds before the hook set. The Sigler popper creates a sharper, louder pop, while the foam head on the Sailfish Fly creates a deeper, chugging disturbance.

The EP Sailfish Streamer is made entirely of synthetic fibers and is designed to sink slightly or swim just under the surface. It is a "finesse" fly for spooky fish. The Fish-Skull Sailfish Fly is a topwater noise-maker designed to create aggression. You would choose the EP Streamer for calm days with wary fish, while the Sailfish Fly is the better choice for rougher water or when you need to make a lot of noise to get a reaction.

Rainy's Bubble Head uses a hard foam body that is very buoyant but can be rigid. The Fish-Skull Sailfish Fly uses a slightly compressible foam that offers a different texture. Both flies push water well, but the Double Barrel head on the Fish-Skull version has a unique shape that tracks straight and dives slightly with each strip, whereas the Bubble Head tends to stay high on top of the film.