The news have spread widely already, but if you don’t know yet, we are sad to let you know that saltwater legend and fly tying pioneer, Bob Popovics, has passed away. Bob was hit by a car and tragically never recovered.
Bob was known for many things and was a leading figure in the modern developments of the striper fishing on the North East coast of America that was closest to his home and his heart. It was for this fishing that he developed his most well known fly, I don’t mind saying iconic here, the Surf Candy.
The Surf Candy tied by Lars Chr. Bentsen.
The Surf Candy was the definition of innovation in fly design. Or “Fleye design” as Bob said. Bob found eyes essential on his bait fish imitations. The true innovative element in the Surf Candy was the use of two part epoxy that solved two problems. As the glue sets slowly over 4-5 minutes Bob was able to produce a very true-to-life sand eel profile and at the same time making a very durable fly. It is really a simple fly – a hook, tinsel, Super Hair, eyes and epoxy. Having to wait for two layers of epoxy to dry the fly took a while to dry. Popovics immediately recognised the advantages of light cured adhesives, which greatly speeds up the process. Bob was early to endorse one of the first brands on the market.
Pale Blue BTD on a SA290 Beast Fleye tied by Bob Popovics.
It’s rare for a fly fisher and fly tier to leave a mark as true and clear as Bob Popovics did.
At Ahrex we’ll remember Bob Popovics as the true innovator that he was and we send our best thoughts to his family and close friends left behind.
Rest in peace, Mr. Popovics!