Tube flies have revolutionised salmon fishing. They're lightweight, versatile, and allow you to tie massive patterns on small hooks. Here's everything you need to know.
What Are Tube Flies?
Unlike traditional flies tied directly on a hook, tube flies are tied on a hollow plastic or metal tube. The hook sits separately, held in place by the leader. This unique design offers several advantages.
Advantages of Tube Flies
- Large profiles, small hooks — Tie big, flashy flies without heavy hooks
- Replaceable hooks — If the hook dulls, just swap it out
- Lightweight — Easier to cast than traditional large salmon flies
- Versatile — Fish them on surface, suspended, or sinking
- Durable — The tube protects the thread wraps from toothy fish
How to Rig Tube Flies
Rigging is simple:
- Thread your leader through the tube
- Tie on a small treble or single hook
- The hook sits at the rear of the tube, ready to hook fish
- Use a junction tubing to keep the hook in position
Best Tube Fly Patterns for Salmon
- Ally's Cascade — The classic shrimp pattern
- Sunray Shadow — Deadly when fish are running
- Monkey — Big, flashy, and impossible to ignore
- Finny — A modern favourite for high water
- Tempest — Great all-round tube fly
Try Tube Flies This Season
All our flies are hand-tied in Nairobi, Kenya using premium materials. All prices indicated are Wholesale per dozen available for tackle shops, dealers, wholesalers, fly shops, outfitters and individual fly fishing enthusiasts. Order now
Shop Tube FliesWhen to Use Tube Flies
Tube flies excel in these conditions:
- High water — Big profiles that fish can find
- Cold water — Slow-sinking tubes for deep pools
- Clear water — Subtle patterns that don't spook fish
- Fast current — Weighted tubes that get down quickly
Tube flies are a must-have for any serious salmon angler. Their versatility and effectiveness make them indispensable on the river.
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