Pond Boss Forums FISH & FISHING Fly Fishing & Other Fish Species HSB Growth Rates

George was kind enough to not only share his pellet fly pattern, but actually took the time to mail me some plus materials to build more. I can't say enough about how much I admire and appreciate him taking the time to pass on his knowledge. Pellet flies were in action today.


Overcast, low 70's, 15 MPH South wind at my back made casting the pellet flies with my Panfish rod [7.5' 1 wt flyrod blank] a breeze. In 45 minutes caught two 5" CSBG, 8 7-11" YP, several GSH 3-7", and one 16" HSB which made at least 10 runs before I could horse her to shore and I didn't tire her out entirely. I am a believer in the pellet fly - weedless and effective.

Thanks again, George!

Nice work, TJ. I bet that hsb was a moose on that outfit.
Your poor shiners are starving.

Yes...it was a tussle - at least 8 runs were made, my little 750 Shimano Symetre was screamin - but I remember sage advice from all you HSB vets to land that fish ASAP so they don't exhaust themselves. I did it, and got paid handsomely with a few dorsal spikes as thanks. I can't imagine catching this fish in the autumn at 20"+ or more. I'm going to have to beef up the tackle. HSB are incredible fish - they are close to surpassing SMB as my favorite species.

TJ, HSB are a blast on fly tackle - they will take you “into the backing” and make the hair stand up on the back of your neck!
Better use an 8wt of better if you ever want to land the big ones ...