Umpqua Gerbec's Po Boy Jig Fly

Overview

The Po Boy is Alec Gerbec's redfish fly, created in Louisiana for bull redfish when typical Gulf Coast flies weren't getting it done.

It is tied on a jig hook, so it rides point up and slides over weeds and oyster beds instead of snagging. Gerbec designed it to work as either a baitfish or a shrimp depending on how you strip it. In murky marsh water, fish find food by profile and depth more than detail, and the Po Boy gives them a solid silhouette at the depth where they are feeding.

How to Fish It

• Sight fishing reds: lead the fish, let it sink to its level and strip when it gets close.
• Shrimp action: short hops and pauses make it jump and fall like a shrimp off the bottom.
• Baitfish action: steady, longer strips give it a swimming baitfish look.
• Structure: the jig hook lets you drag it over oyster beds, shell and grass with fewer snags.

Choosing Color and Size

Brown/Tan is a natural shrimp and baitfish color for clearer water and sunny days.

Choose 2/0 for bull redfish and bigger water, and 2 for slot reds, clearer water and a quieter landing.