由 Brian Townsend 
# **How to Choose FLY FISHING FLIES – Hippie Stomper Hopper (#14) Custom Hand Tied (6 pcs.)**
Fly fishing is an art, and selecting the right fly can make the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. Among the many patterns available, the **Hippie Stomper Hopper (#14) Custom Hand Tied (6 pcs.)** stands out as a must-have for anglers targeting trout and other aggressive fish species. In this guide, we’ll explore why this fly is so effective, how to choose the right size and color, and when to use it for maximum success.
## **Why the Hippie Stomper Hopper?**
The **Hippie Stomper Hopper** is a high-floating, attractor-style dry fly designed to imitate grasshoppers and other terrestrial insects. Its buoyant foam body and rubber legs create a realistic, enticing movement on the water’s surface, triggering aggressive strikes from trout, bass, and panfish.
Key features of this fly include:
– **Durable foam body** – Ensures long-lasting floatation even in fast-moving currents.
– **Vibrant colors** – The bright, contrasting hues (often orange, yellow, and black) make it highly visible to fish.
– **Rubber legs** – Mimic the natural movement of a struggling insect, increasing strike rates.
– **Hand-tied craftsmanship** – Each fly is meticulously tied for consistency and durability.
## **Choosing the Right Size (#14)**
Fly size plays a critical role in matching the hatch and fooling selective fish. The **#14 Hippie Stomper Hopper** is a versatile mid-size option that works well in most conditions. Here’s why:
– **Small enough** to imitate juvenile hoppers and other terrestrials without spooking wary trout.
– **Large enough** to create a noticeable disturbance on the water, attracting fish from a distance.
– Ideal for **small to medium-sized rivers**, where natural hoppers are common.
If you’re fishing larger waters or targeting bigger fish, consider sizing up to a #10 or #12. Conversely, in ultra-clear or pressured waters, a smaller #16 might be more effective.
## **When and Where to Fish the Hippie Stomper Hopper**
This fly excels in **late summer and early fall**, when grasshoppers and other terrestrials are abundant near riverbanks. Here are the best scenarios for using it:
1. **Near Overhanging Vegetation** – Cast close to grassy banks where hoppers naturally fall into the water.
2. **In Slow to Moderate Currents** – The fly’s buoyancy keeps it afloat, making it ideal for riffles and eddies.
3. **During Midday Hatches** – Unlike mayflies and caddis, hoppers are most active in warm daylight hours.
4. **For Aggressive Fish** – Trout, bass, and even carp will attack this fly with explosive takes.
## **Presentation Tips for Maximum Success**
To get the most out of your **Hippie Stomper Hopper**, follow these techniques:
– **Use a dead-drift approach** – Let the fly float naturally downstream with occasional twitches to mimic a struggling insect.
– **Pair with a dropper fly** – Adding a small nymph (like a Pheasant Tail or Zebra Midge) below the hopper can increase hookups.
– **Target structure** – Focus on seams, undercut banks, and foam lines where fish wait for food.
## **Why Choose Custom Hand-Tied Flies?**
Mass-produced flies often lack the durability and precision of hand-tied versions. The **Hippie Stomper Hopper (6 pcs.)** from **KyleBooker** is crafted by expert tiers, ensuring:
– **Superior hook quality** – Sharp, strong hooks that won’t bend under pressure.
– **Consistent tying** – Every fly performs the same way, trip after trip.
– **Longer lifespan** – High-quality materials resist wear and tear.
## **Final Thoughts**
If you’re looking for a **highly effective, durable, and fish-catching dry fly**, the **Hippie Stomper Hopper (#14) Custom Hand Tied (6 pcs.)** is an excellent choice. Whether you’re targeting trout in mountain streams or bass in warm-water rivers, this fly delivers consistent action.
For premium hand-tied flies and top-tier fishing gear, check out **KyleBooker’s** collection—your next big catch is waiting!
**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣