The Checkerboard
This fly is a beginner level tie.
The Checkerboard is a pattern by Lee Baermann, originally for Southern California near-shore saltwater fish.
I learned about this fly about 5 years ago, from Lee’s book _Fly Fish The Surf_. See his web site flyfishthesurf.com.
The Checkerboard is my go-to surf perch fly for Northern California. I was targeting surf perch a couple days after Christmas when I hooked into a twelve pound striper with this fly.
December is a great time to not only visit the coast, but also fly fish the surf. The surf perch bite (from my experience) picks up in late December and lasts through Spring. If you go, target beaches that are less exposed to northwest swells, check weather and swell forecast, and be mindful of ocean safety. Max Garrison, club member, and local guide is an excellent resource to learn more about fly fishing the surf. Lost Coast Outfitters is also a great resource. Reach out to me if you need help with finding information about fly fishing the surf, or want to meet me out there.
I also tie a variation of this pattern with a red hackle collar right behind the lead eyes, on a saltwater jig hook.
Thank you to Lost Coast Outfitters for providing the materials.
All materials and tools will be provided.
Material List
Hook: Saltwater hook, size 4, such as Daiichi 2546 or Gamakatsu SL11
Head: Barebell eye, small or medium in black.
Tail: Red Marabou
Flash: Red flash, such as Predator Wrap or Polar Flash, or equivalent.
Body: Red/Black Speckled or Variegated Chenille
Thread: 6/0 Red, or 50/100 GSP in white and a red sharpy pen
Head cement
Tools: Vise, light or headlamp, bobbin, scissors.