Bob Popovics changed saltwater fly tying, and the Surf Candy is one of his landmark patterns. By encasing a slim baitfish body in epoxy or UV resin, he created a fly that is both beautifully translucent, like the real glassy baits, and tough enough to survive fish after fish, including toothy ones. For the fall run, it is a staple.
What it imitates
The Surf Candy is a small, slim baitfish imitation, perfect for silversides, sand eels and bay anchovies. The hard, clear body captures the semi-transparent look of these baits better than almost anything, which is exactly what fussy fall fish want.
How to fish it
Fish it on an intermediate line with a fast, steady retrieve for albies and bonito, or a varied strip for schoolie bass working bait in the shallows. Its slim, hard body casts easily and cuts through wind.
Tip Carry a range of sizes and let the bait dictate. When fish are on tiny anchovies, a small Surf Candy on a long light leader gets eaten when a bigger fly gets refused.
Sizes and colors
Olive, tan, gray or pink over white, with plenty of flash under the resin, covers most silverside and anchovy situations. Match the size to the natural, small for anchovies and spearing, a touch larger for sand eels.