Lemon Drop Tarpon Fly

White feather tails, yellow marabou and hackle, and a clear-wrapped head on an exposed shank.

Steve Huff’s Keys-style tarpon pattern.

From hook to fly

At the vise.

4 illustrated steps

Work through the numbered steps in order. Use the written materials and proportions as your guide; select an image for a closer look.

Secure the white tail
Start thread at mid-shank and wrap to the bend. Attach four white feathers extending two shank lengths rearward; cement the wraps.
Distribute the marabou
Tie small yellow marabou bunches around the tail base, tips rearward. Trim waste and secure.
Wind yellow hackle
Attach and wind yellow rooster hackle ahead of the marabou. Secure and trim; form a yellow thread head behind mid-shank.
Cover and secure the head
Anchor clear ribbing at the front of the head. Return thread to the collar; wrap ribbing rearward over the head, tie off, whip finish, and cement.

Beyond the bench

Check that the tail swims freely.

Tied by independent makers

No versions are listed yet. Choose a tyer and ask about your sizes, colors and materials. The tyer must confirm availability and send an offer.

Original written instructions adapted from the sources below. Materials and methods may vary between versions.

Pattern dressings vary; use the written recipe for exact materials and proportions.