Chili Pepper Worm

The Chili Pepper Worm is an exceptional fly pattern designed to imitate the Florida Keys' Palolo Worm, a favorite prey of tarpon during their legendary May and June hatches. While these hatches are brief, tarpon eagerly eat worm flies both before and after the main event, making the Chili Worm a must-have during South Florida's tarpon season. Its lifelike movement and profile make it irresistible to tarpon cruising the flats. Any serious angler targeting tarpon in the Keys should always have a rod rigged and ready with this reliable worm pattern.

Fish the Chili Worm with a steady, smooth strip to imitate the natural swimming motion of the Palolo Worm. Focus on presenting the fly along travel lanes where tarpon are cruising during the hatch. For pre- and post-hatch action, target channels, edges, and flats where tarpon stage. Make long, accurate casts ahead of moving fish, and let the fly drift naturally into their path. Always keep tension on the line and be ready for explosive takes—tarpon are known to strike aggressively, especially during worm season. Remember to use a strip-set and avoid lifting the rod to ensure a solid hook-up.