About Capt JD

In 1978 I was first introduced to stream fishing while backpacking in California's southern Sierra mountains. Can't say how inspiring it was to watch Rainbows making their way upstream, pool to pool, navigating book-like waterfalls etc. Crystal clear and cold water it was. I spent quite few years discovering the fisheries before being introduced to a fly-fishing rig. In 1982, I was introduced to an antique cane rod and click-pawl reel. The engineering of this reel and simple concept of throwing a weighted line to get a super-light artificial fly out into the middle of a stream made its lasting impression. I suppose it's my intrigue for activities and sports combining outdoor elements, strategy and a fair amount of physics that seemed to grip me. After quite a few years snow skiing, golfing, skeet shooting, yacht racing, and of course fly-fishing, I can now see how much physics plays a part in all of them. In my early years of fly-fishing, I discovered I could tie my own flies. If a fly needed more of one color than another, I could simply tie one to work more effectively. The endless number of materials and colors opened the door for design and creativity. The structuring and layering of materials added many more options. The combinations of size, texture, style, and functionality were endless. Needless to say, I was hooked. My experience with fly-fishing continued with discovering fisheries up and down the west coast, from California to Arctic Circle. In the early 1990s, I spent some time floating the Green and Teton rivers for Rainbows. In the mid 1990s, I was fortunate enough to fish Alaska, BC and NWT for Cutthroat, Rainbow and Lake Trout – the occasional Grayling was nice too. Moving to Hawaii in 2012 offered me a look at some sizable Bonefish and another amazing fishery. In 2014, I relocated to southern Florida and was knocked over by such an expansive fishery. Florida is truly the capital of sport fishing. Miles and miles of untapped fisheries are waiting for the next fly-fishing enthusiast...well, that and some really big fish. I hold a USCG Master Inland and Mate Near Coastal 50 Ton Captain's License with Assistance Towing and Auxiliary Sailing Endorsements. I also hold a NAUI Openwater 1 certification in SCUBA. Professionally, I have over 30 years in leading technical teams in project, program, and change management within IS, IT, Application Development, and high-tech construction. A majority of this experience was acquired within the aerospace, undersea, telecom, networking, engineering, and healthcare fields. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Master of Science degree in Organizational Leadership, and professional certifications in project, service, and quality management. My fly-fishing journey has been amazing thus far - its discoveries are never ending and all inspiring to say the least. Let's keep it this way for all to come. Please take care of the fish you catch/ release and let's continue to work diligently minimizing our back-country footprint. - Capt JD.

Lenny’s Betty Boop: Black

Posted on February 24, 2016 by Capt JD

Recreate fly patterns at home! Materials used in making this fly have been included below. Always keep in mind your local fly-fishing store will most likely have the materials referenced, and typically for less. Materials can also be found at Amazon or any other major on-line resource.

Fly-Tying Materials

[list]
[list_item]Mustad S74SS-2XH/4XL (34011) Hook (#1/0)[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Thread 210, Black[/list_item]
[list_item]lead wire, 0.025 (under body wraps)[/list_item]
[list_item]Bucktail, Root Beer[/list_item]
[list_item]Estaz, 10 mm, Root Beer[/list_item]
[list_item]Krystal Flash, Gold[/list_item]
[list_item]Marabou, Black (centers cut out)[/list_item]
[list_item]Deer Body Hair, Black[/list_item]
[list_item]3D Eyes, 6 mm, Red[/list_item]
[list_item]Zap-A-Gap CA[/list_item]
[/list]

Design Inspiration & Detail

John Roetman is a well known fly-tying and fly-fishing authority in South Florida, now spending a majority of his time fishing the Treasure Coast. He will frequent various fly-fishing expos throughout the year, demonstrating his tying talent and offering a look at his latest designs/ creations.

John was trying to come up with a Mullet pattern, one that would push a little water when retrieved. Evidently the deer hair head of the freshwater Muddler Minnow came to mind. When he applied the eyes and sat back to check the proportions, he couldn’t help but think the big eyes gave the fly a Betty Boop look, his dads favorite cartoon character. Needless to say, John named the fly Lenny’s Betty Boop in memory of his late father – his most memorable fishing partner.

John recommends using this color in limited-light environments or when fishing murky water. Here’s a look at a John’s Lenny’s Betty Boop in White. Lenny’s Betty Boop sells for $3.95. For further info on John and a look at more of his fly patterns, see Flies by John Roetman.

Target Species

This particular fly was designed to attract Snook, although Jacks, Tarpon, and many other species will also take the fly.

Gartside’s Fish Head (variation): Black

Posted on November 15, 2015 by Capt JD

Fly-Tying Materials

[list]
[list_item]Mustad C70SD Hook (#1/0)[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Thread 210, Red[/list_item]
[list_item]Bucktail, Black[/list_item]
[list_item]Krystal Flash, Gold[/list_item]
[list_item]Saddle Hackle, Black[/list_item]
[list_item]Saddle Hackle, Purple[/list_item]
[list_item]Flymen Fish-Skull Living Eyes, 5/16″, Ice[/list_item]
[list_item]E-Z Body, Medium, Black/ Pearl[/list_item]
[list_item]Loon UV Knot Sense[/list_item]
[/list]

Design Inspiration & Detail

John Roetman is a well known fly-tying and fly-fishing authority in South Florida, now spending a majority of his time fishing the Treasure Coast. John will frequent various fly-fishing expos throughout the year, demonstrating his tying talent and offering a look at his latest designs/ creations.

John recommends using this color in limited-light environments or when fishing murky water. Here’s a look at a John’s variation of Gartside’s Fish Head in White. Both Fish Head variations John sells for $3.50. For further info on John and a look at more of his fly patterns, see Flies by John Roetman.

Target Species

This particular fly was designed to attract Snook – Jacks, Blues, Ladyfish, Albacore, Snapper and many other species will also take the fly.

Dock Lite Special: Blue

Posted on November 13, 2015 by Capt JD

Fly-Tying Materials

[list]
[list_item]Orvis SI9034 Hook (#4)[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Monofilament, Clear (0.006)[/list_item]
[list_item]Kanekalon hair, kinky, White[/list_item]
[list_item]Kanekalon hair, kinky, Blue[/list_item]
[list_item]Krystal Flash, Micro, Pearl[/list_item]
[list_item]Sharpie, Red[/list_item]
[list_item]flat stick-on eyes, 3/32″, Black/ White[/list_item]
[list_item]E-Z Body, Small, Pearl[/list_item]
[list_item]Loon UV Knot Sense[/list_item]
[/list]

Design Inspiration & Detail

In Southern Florida, an action packed evening can be found fishing at night under the dock lights. John tied this pattern to mimic the smaller bait fish that Snook typically target. John sells this pattern and limited other colors for $3.00. For further info on John and a look at more of his fly patterns, see Flies by John Roetman.

Target Species

This particular fly was designed to attract Snook – Jacks, Blues, Ladyfish, Albacore, Snapper and many other species will also take the fly.

Mackerel Madness: Chartreuse

Posted on November 11, 2015 by Capt JD

Fly-Tying Materials

[list]
[list_item]Orvis SI9034 Hook (#2)[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Thread 210, Chartreuse[/list_item]
[list_item]spooled lead, round, 0.025″[/list_item]
[list_item]flat stick-on eyes, Black/ White (coat with finishing glue)[/list_item]
[list_item]Krystal Flash, Pearl[/list_item]
[list_item]Fuzzy Fiber, Chartreuse[/list_item]
[list_item]Fuzzy Fiber, White[/list_item]
[list_item]poly tubing, 1/4″, Clear[/list_item]
[list_item]Sharpie, Red[/list_item]
[list_item]Zap-A-Gap CA[/list_item]
[/list]

Design Inspiration & Detail

Other color combinations John recommends include Yellow/ White, Olive/ White, and White/ White. When the Mackerel are running, this is his go-to pattern. Traditional patterns (such as Clousers) are quickly chewed up by the Mackerel’s teeth – you may only catch a couple fish on one fly before it is shredded beyond repair. By covering the hook shank with the poly tubing, the fly will catch at least six fish before it’s out of commission. John sells all color variations of this pattern for $2.50. For further info on John and a look at more of his fly patterns, see Flies by John Roetman.

Target Species

This particular fly was designed to attract Mackerel – Snook, Jacks, and many other species will also take the fly.

Gartside’s Fish Head (variation): White

Posted on November 7, 2015 by Capt JD

Fly-Tying Materials

[list]
[list_item]Orvis SI9034 Hook (#1)[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Thread 210, White[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Monofilament, Clear (0.006)[/list_item]
[list_item]Bucktail, White[/list_item]
[list_item]Krystal Flash, Pearl[/list_item]
[list_item]flat stick-on eyes, holographic, 1/8″[/list_item]
[list_item]E-Z Body, Medium, Pearl[/list_item]
[list_item]Loon UV Knot Sense[/list_item]
[/list]

Design Inspiration & Detail

This original pattern was tied by Jack Gartside from Boston, MA, using Grizzly hackle and having a shorter and wider head. This pattern was tied to emulate bait fish in Southern FL found throughout the Mangroves, around the docks, and in the surf. For another effective combination, use Grizzly hackle in place of White. Here’s a look at a John’s variation of Gartside’s Fish Head in Black. Both Fish Head variations John sells for $3.50. For further info on John and a look at more of his fly patterns, see Flies by John Roetman.

Target Species

This particular fly was designed to attract Snook – Jacks, Blues, Ladyfish, Albacore, Snapper and many other species will also take the fly.

Mini Finger Mullet: Olive

Posted on November 5, 2015 by Capt JD

Fly-Tying Materials

[list]
[list_item]Owner Hook 5377-111, Black Chrome (#1/0)[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Monofilament, Clear (0.006″)[/list_item]
[list_item]Bucktail, White[/list_item]
[list_item]EP Fiber, Red[/list_item]
[list_item]EP Fiber, Pearl[/list_item]
[list_item]EP Fiber, Mullet[/list_item]
[list_item]Kanekalon hair, kinky, White[/list_item]
[list_item]doll eyes, 7 mm, Black/ White[/list_item]
[list_item]Zap-A-Gap CA[/list_item]
[/list]

Design Inspiration & Detail

John recommends using this pattern and color when the Finger Mullet are migrating along South Florida beaches and through most inlets/ rivers. This pattern work very well in the Mangroves as well. John sells this pattern for $2.50 in a variety of colors. For further info on John and a look at more of his fly patterns, see Flies by John Roetman.

Target Species

This particular fly was designed to attract Snook – Jacks, Blues, Ladyfish, Albacore, Snapper and many other species will also take the fly.

Flies by John Roetman

Posted on November 5, 2015 by Capt JD

I first connected with John Roetman at the 2015 IFFF Expo in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He had quite a few folks gathered around his fly-tying bench, all of which were very interested in his display of unique creations. After some time watching John tie one of his latest local patterns, it was apparent he had years of experience at a vise – that and a knack for demonstrating how to move through the design and tying process. Needless to say, we were thrilled to have him send us a few flies (below) to post on Fly Mastery. We anticipate sharing more of John’s creations in the next few months.

• Dock Lite Special: Blue
• Gartside’s Fish Head (variation): White
• Gartside’s Fish Head (variation): Black
• Mini Finger Mullet: Olive
• Mackerel Madness: Chartreuse
• Lenny’s Betty Boop: Black
• Lenny’s Betty Boop: White

John ties most saltwater patterns and would be willing to sell a few by request. If interested in purchasing any of the referenced flies, pricing is included below.

Pricing

Fish Heads: $3.50
Dock Lite Special: $3.00
Mackerel Madness: $2.50
Mini Finger Mullet: $2.50
Lenny’s Betty Boop: $3.95

Other Details

John ties a majority of his saltwater flies with Orvis SI9034 and Mustad C70SD Big Game hooks. If looking for something special, please make sure to inquire first. He will ship any assortment needed.

Shipping

Please connect with John for pricing on shipping. Orders typically ship inside of one week. For specific questions, feel free to connect with John via e-mail.

John’s Bio

John Roetman is a well known fly-tying and fly-fishing authority here in South Florida. After retiring in 2010 and moving to Hobe Sound, John spends a majority of his time fishing the Treasure Coast. He covers a majority of the ICW, from the Mangroves to the surf. John has been fly-tying and fly-fishing for over 50 years now. He’s always worked in the fishing business, managing and buying for Ramsey Outdoor and Orvis, both in Northeast NJ. John is a lifetime member of Trout Unlimited, CCA Florida, and IFFF. Quite often you’ll find him at various fly-fishing expos throughout the year, demonstrating his tying talent and offering a look at his latest designs/ creations. John has not only fished a majority of the waters here in the US, but those abroad, including many in Canada, New Zealand, Chile, Argentina, Belize, Mexico, and the Bahamas.

: Design: John Roetman Photo: Capt JD

: Design: John Roetman Photo: Capt JD

: Design: John Roetman Photo: Capt JD

: Design: John Roetman Photo: Capt JD

: Design: John Roetman Photo: Capt JD

: Design: John Roetman Photo: Capt JD

: Design: John Roetman Photo: Capt JD

Bendback Deceiver: Gold

Posted on November 1, 2015 by Capt JD

Fly-Tying Materials

[list]
[list_item]Mustad Hook 34007SS (#2)[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Thread 210, Tan[/list_item]
[list_item]Brass Eyes, Medium, Gold[/list_item]
[list_item]Krystal Flash, Fluorescent Fire Orange[/list_item]
[list_item]Krystal Flash, Copper[/list_item]
[list_item]Sparkle Braid, Cream[/list_item]
[list_item]Sally Hansen Hard As Nails, Hardener, Clear (#2103)[/list_item]
[/list]

Design Inspiration & Detail

Cordell Baum is a well known canoe guide here in Biscayne Bay. He recently suggested having a heavy yellow pattern in the fly-box is not only a good idea, but one of only three patterns he carries. I was limited on various yellow materials, so I tied a simple and heavy somewhat yellow/ gold deceiver. The bendback design and Krystal Flash flaring over the hook helps with snagging sea grass, etc. For more info on Cordell and his guide services, see The Bonefish Whisperer.

Target Species

This particular fly was designed to attract Bonefish and Permit – many other species will also take the fly.

Glassy Palolo Worm: Using Silver Lined Japanese Seed Beads

Posted on October 25, 2015 by Capt JD

Fly-Tying Materials

[list]
[list_item]Owner Hook 5377-111, Black Chrome (#1/0)[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Thread 210, Tan[/list_item]
[list_item]Rabbit Strips, Cross-Cut, Red[/list_item]
[list_item]Japanese Glass Seed Beads, Silver Lined, 4 mm, Light Green[/list_item]
[list_item]Japanese Glass Seed Beads, Silver Lined, 4 mm, Olive Green[/list_item]
[list_item]Japanese Glass Seed Beads, Silver Lined, 4 mm, Light Pink[/list_item]
[list_item]Sally Hansen Hard As Nails, Hardener, Clear (#2103)[/list_item]
[/list]

Design Inspiration & Detail

Each year at the end of MAY and beginning of JUN, the Palolo worm hatch takes place in the Florida Keys. Palolo worms emerge from the coral/ rock formations when conditions are just right (i.e. full or new moon, low tide, calm water, etc.). These 2.5″ to 3″ worms find their way out to the ocean side of the Keys to meet the annual Tarpon migration from the North. Tarpon always seem to know exactly when this hatch takes place. Typically just outside of the Bahia Honda Bridge is a popular place to meet the migration. In some form or another you will find Tarpon feeding on worms in the greater middle Keys and occasionally in the Back Country.

Palolo worms don’t wiggle really, they jet forward quickly and remain fairly straight when under way. The trick is to fish with longer leaders (11′ to 13′) and strip with super-fast 3″ ticks. Use a two-handed strip if it’s difficult with one.

For anyone who seeks Tarpon with a fly-rod, a handful of Palolo worm flies is a MUST for the fly-box. The Palolo worm pictured above includes Japanese seed beads for added brilliance and texture. This version also rides lower in the water column when compared to yarn/ feather versions. Some cut off the hair on the rabbit-strip to create a slender look to the worm. I leave the hair to add a tiny bit more bulk – the bulk seems to get the attention I want. Worms will typically have a red or pink half and a portion which is tan, taupe, beige, or olive green.

The version tied above is a small Tarpon fly. Tarpon flies are tied using hook sizes up to #3/0. If you wish to use a larger hooks, make sure you find the right size seed bead – beads will need to fit over the barb.

Notes On the Seed Beads

I’ve been experimenting with these glass seed beads since MAY 2014. Stumbled upon these glass beads in an art store (Michael’s) some time ago. Beautiful part about them is the fact they are lined with silver – this really adds some longevity to their brilliance under water. Another great attribute is the fact they barley slide over the barb on hooks and big as #1/0 – this means they ride relatively tight to the hook shank. The beads also give some audible clicking if choosing to tie loosely – the beads slide back and forth into one another.

Make sure to wrap the shank of the hook with thread at least one time – this will make it so the silver lining inside each bead will remain intact. The reflection does wonders for attracting fish.

For those interested in the relative weight of the fly: The five (5) seed beads used on the hook weigh one-quarter of a gram – this is equal to one set of Bead Chain Eyes.

If you would like to see another version of the Palolo worm that rides slightly higher in the water column, check out our Palolo Worm using Marabou and Laser Dub .

Target Species

This particular fly was designed to attract Tarpon – many other species will also take the fly.

Cracked Merkin Crab Fleeing: Biscayne Blue

Posted on October 24, 2015 by Capt JD

Fly-Tying Materials

[list]
[list_item]Mustad Hook 34007SS (#2)[/list_item]
[list_item]UTC Thread 210, Tan[/list_item]
[list_item]Brass Eyes, Medium, Nickel[/list_item]
[list_item]Krystal Flash Chenille, Shrimp Pink[/list_item]
[list_item]Badger, Small[/list_item]
[list_item]EP Fiber, Beige[/list_item]
[list_item]EP Fiber, Eel Green[/list_item]
[list_item]rubber legs, Fishing Skirts, Army Blue Bars (both colors)[/list_item]
[list_item]Berkley Vanish, Fluorocarbon, 30#, Clear (weed guard)[/list_item]
[list_item]Sally Hansen Hard As Nails, Hardener, Clear (#2103)[/list_item]
[/list]

Design Inspiration & Detail

I wanted to create a crab fly with very neutral tones (pastels of light pinks, tans, etc.) – a Blue Crab pattern really. Figured this would work very well in Biscayne Bay, FL where pinks, tans, and browns do the trick. For a little zing/ flash, I added some Krystal Flash Chenille in Shrimp Pink – it also simulates a cracked crab.

Target Species

This particular fly was designed to attract Bonefish and Permit – many other species will also take the fly.