Tiger Brush Fly

The Tiger Fish Brush Fly is a specific type of fly pattern designed to target tigerfish, which are known for their aggressive nature and powerful strikes. These patterns are tried and tested favourites that are made locally in South Africa by FlyzInc.

Pattern Overview:

1. Materials:
   • Body and tail: tied with synthetic materials like craft fur or brush fibers. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to create a bulky, moving profile in the water. Bright colours or hot spots also help to get the Tiger’s attention and bring on a take.
   • Head: Weighted dumbbell eyes help the fly sink quickly when fished on a variety of fly lines (particularly effective on 7ips sinking tip fly lines)
   • Hackle: synthetic fibers to mimic the appearance of prey and attract the tigerfish’s attention.
2. Design Features:
   • Color: Tiger Fish Brush Flies are commonly tied in bright, contrasting colors. This makes them highly visible in the often murky waters where tigerfish are found.
   • Size: They tend to be on the larger side to match the size of the prey Tigerfish are accustomed to, and are best paired with an 8-weight fly rod and appropriate fly line.

Usage and Techniques:

1. Casting and Retrieval:
   • Retrieve Speed: Fast and erratic retrieves work well. Tigerfish are predatory and are more likely to strike at something that looks like it’s struggling to escape.
   • Strip-Pause Method: Try a combination of fast strips with pauses to mimic the movement of a wounded fish or other prey. The pauses can trigger strikes from aggressive Tigerfish.
2. Presentation:
   • Depth: Adjust the weight of the fly line and your retrieval speed to target different depths. Tigerfish can be found at various depths depending on water conditions and time of day.
   • Water Type: This fly is effective in both still and moving water. In still water, it’s often a good idea to let the fly sink (on a fast intermediate line or 7ips sinking tip) and then retrieve it with a steady strip.
3. Fishing Conditions:
   • Visibility: Bright, sunny conditions can help with visibility, making the flashy components of the fly more attractive.
   • Water Clarity: In murky water, the Tiger Fish Brush Fly’s bulk and color contrast help ensure it remains visible and enticing to the fish.

General Tips:

• Match the Hatch/Prey: If you notice a specific prey/baitfish type in the area, adjust the color and size of your brush fly or clouser to match it.
• Equipment: Use a strong, fast-action fly rod and a large arbor fly reel with a robust fluorocarbon tippet in the 20-30lb range. Tigerfish are powerful fighters, with incredible aggressive takes/bites, and you’ll need gear that can handle their strength.

Choosing the right fly line is crucial when targeting Tigerfish, especially given their often warm, challenging environments. Here’s a detailed breakdown of why these specific fly lines are recommended and how they can benefit your tigerfish fishing experience: Remembering a 7-9 weight setup is ideal based on the weight and size of the flies you will be casting.

1. Airflo 40+ Range:

• Heat Resistance: The Airflo 40+ lines are known for their durability in high temperatures. These lines are designed to remain supple and manageable even in very warm climates, which is essential for maintaining casting performance and avoiding line stiffness.
• Casting Performance: The 40+ range typically offers a good balance between weight and taper, which helps in casting large, bulky flies effectively.
• Sinking Options: Airflo’s range includes various sink rates, allowing you to choose a line that matches the depth at which tigerfish are feeding.

2. SA Titan/Sonar Range (Scientific Anglers Titan):

• Durability: The SA Titan lines are built to handle tough conditions. They are designed with a robust core and coating that resist abrasion and remain flexible under heat.
• Powerful Casting: These lines are engineered for casting larger flies and handling strong, aggressive fish like tigerfish. The design aids in delivering heavy flies with accuracy and distance.
• Sink Rates: Similar to Airflo, the SA Titan range offers different sink rates, which helps in getting your fly down to the right depth quickly.

3. Cortland Tropic Plus/General Saltwater Ranges:

• Heat and Salt Resistance: Cortland’s Tropic Plus and General Saltwater lines are specifically designed for warm and saltwater environments. They resist heat and are less likely to suffer from line memory or softness in high temperatures.
• Performance: These lines often feature advanced coatings that reduce friction and improve casting distance. They are also durable enough to withstand the aggressive strikes and fights from Tigerfish.
• Versatility: Cortland lines are available in various tapers and sink rates, allowing you to select a line that best fits the specific conditions and techniques you are using.

Why These Lines Work Well for Tigerfish:

• Heat Resistance: All these lines are designed to maintain their performance in high temperatures, which is crucial when fishing in the warm climates tigerfish inhabit.
• Durability: Tigerfish are powerful and aggressive. These lines are built to withstand the wear and tear of fighting such strong fish.
• Sink Rates and Casting Performance: Getting your fly to the right depth efficiently is vital for success. These lines offer various sink rates and are designed to handle the larger flies needed for tigerfish, making them versatile and effective choices.