How to Tie the Imposter Big Game Saltwater Fly

Fly Tying

Mar 4

The Imposter Big Game Saltwater Fly is a baitfish imitation designed to entice giant predators like tarpon, GTs, and striped bass. With a blend of synthetic fibers and flashy accents, this fly moves naturally in the water, making it a must-have for any serious saltwater angler.

Material List:

Hook: Gamakatsu SL12S 6/0
Thread: Danville 600 denier monofilament
Body: White SF Blend
Tail: White Big Fly Fiber
Flash: Flashabou Magnum (Sapphire, Blue Pearl, White, Silver)
Finish: UV resin

Step-by-Step Guide: Tying the Imposter Big Game Saltwater Fly

Step 1: Secure the Hook & Build a Thread Base

Place a Gamakatsu SL12S 6/0 hook in the vise.
Use Danville 600 denier monofilament thread and wrap an even thread base from the eye to just before the bend.

Step 2: Tie in the First Layer of SF Blend

Take a small amount of white SF Blend, cut it into three equal sections, and stack them.
Taper the ends by pulling out any blunt fibers.
Tie in the bundle at its midpoint on top of the hook shank using three wraps.
Distribute evenly around the hook by pushing the fibers with your thumbnail.
Wrap back slightly to flare the fibers outward.

Step 3: Add Big Fly Fiber for Length

Take a bundle of white Big Fly Fiber, tease out the tips, and cut to the desired length.
Tie it in at a 60/40 ratio (with more length extending past the hook bend).
Secure it with three wraps and distribute the fibers evenly.
Wrap backward to lock the fibers in place, then pull the front portion back and secure.

Step 4: Add Flash for Movement

Select Flashabou Magnum in Sapphire, Blue Pearl, White, and Silver (three strands each).
Fold the strands in half and cut to create 10-inch sections.
Taper the tips by pulling out random strands to soften the edges.
Tie in the flash slightly longer than the Big Fly Fiber, keeping it centered on top of the hook.
Fold the front section back and secure with a few wraps.

Step 5: Build Bulk with More SF Blend

Repeat Step 2 with another SF Blend stack, using slightly more material for density.
Taper the fibers, tie them in at the midpoint, and flare them around the hook shank.