I first connected with Joe Murray over Twitter earlier this month. After exchanging a few fly-tying ideas, he shared with me an image of a unique baitfish fly he tied recently. Joe indicated the baitfish design was an original concept and very effective in South Florida. Fascinated with the fly’s design concept, I requested he send me a few to showcase on Fly Mastery. Joe was kind enough to send me a few additional designs as well. Some examples include:

Joe grew up walking the many tributaries of Lake Erie fishing for Smallmouth Bass, Carp, and Steelhead. Summer vacations would take him to Nags Head, NC where he would walk the beaches spotting schools of Blues making their run toward schools of bait fish. It was during this time he transitioned over to fly fishing exclusively. A career as a school teacher has allowed for extended Summer stays in Fort Meyers, Marco Island, Sanibel Island, and Key West. Locations like this gave him the opportunity to wade flats and kayak the Backcountry for Snook, Redfish, and one of his favorites, Tarpon. This past Summer he landed his first Tarpon from the kayak using one of his latest creations. He continues to fly-fish the Backcountry of the Everglades and crystal clear waters of the lower Keys to feed his addiction – getting Tarpon to eat! Joe is currently sharing his love for fly-fishing by pioneering a fly-fishing club at the school in which he teaches. His motto is: You will always have a friend on the water.