由 Charlie Walker 
# **How to Choose Wapsi Perfect Soft Pencil Popper Fly Tying Lures (4 Colors, Hook Sz #1 or #4)**
As an avid angler, selecting the right fly-tying lure can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. The **Wapsi Perfect Soft Pencil Popper** is a top-tier choice for fly fishermen targeting species like bass, panfish, and even saltwater predators. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this lure—its design, color selection, hook size, and how to choose the best option for your fishing needs.
## **Understanding the Wapsi Perfect Soft Pencil Popper**
The **Wapsi Perfect Soft Pencil Popper** is a premium soft-bodied fly-tying lure designed to mimic small baitfish or insects struggling on the water’s surface. Its **pencil-shaped body** creates a subtle yet enticing action, producing a “pop” or “splash” that triggers aggressive strikes from predatory fish.
### **Key Features:**
– **Soft, durable material** – Ensures lifelike movement while resisting wear and tear.
– **Realistic color patterns** – Available in four high-visibility colors to match different water conditions.
– **Hook options (#1 or #4)** – Allows customization based on target species and fly size.
– **Easy to tie** – Works well with various fly-tying techniques for both freshwater and saltwater applications.
## **Choosing the Right Color**
Color selection is crucial when fishing with poppers, as visibility and natural appearance influence a fish’s willingness to strike. The **Wapsi Perfect Soft Pencil Popper** comes in **four proven colors**:
1. **White** – Ideal for clear water and bright conditions, mimicking small baitfish.
2. **Black** – Excellent for low-light or murky water, creating a strong silhouette.
3. **Chartreuse** – Highly visible in stained or choppy water, great for aggressive fish.
4. **Olive** – A natural choice for imitating frogs or insects in weedy areas.
**Pro Tip:** Match the color to the local forage—if bass are feeding on shad, white or silver variations work best. In grassy areas, olive or black may be more effective.
## **Selecting the Right Hook Size (#1 or #4)**
The hook size plays a critical role in hookup rates and the size of fish you can target.
– **#1 Hook** – Best for larger fish like bass, pike, or saltwater species. Provides better penetration and holding power.
– **#4 Hook** – Ideal for panfish, trout, or smaller bass. Offers a more delicate presentation for finicky feeders.
**Consideration:** If you’re fishing in heavy cover, a **#1 hook** provides better strength, while a **#4 hook** is perfect for open water or finesse presentations.
## **Tying and Fishing Techniques**
To maximize the effectiveness of the **Wapsi Perfect Soft Pencil Popper**, follow these tips:
– **Fly-Tying:** Use strong thread (like 210-denier) and secure the popper head firmly to prevent slippage.
– **Retrieve Style:** A **slow, erratic pop-and-pause** retrieve mimics a wounded baitfish, triggering reaction strikes.
– **Leader Choice:** A **floating leader (7.5-9ft, 0X-3X)** works best to keep the popper on the surface.
## **Final Thoughts**
The **Wapsi Perfect Soft Pencil Popper** is a versatile and effective lure that should be in every fly angler’s box. By selecting the right **color and hook size**, you can tailor your approach to different species and conditions. Whether you’re chasing bass in freshwater or sight-fishing for aggressive saltwater predators, this popper delivers **realistic action and consistent results**.
For more expert fishing tips and gear reviews, stay tuned to **[KyleBooker Fishing Blog](#)**—your trusted source for top-tier angling advice!
**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣