Alex,
Those hooks are very similar to the ones I use. I like the Eagle Claw Octopus hooks - they aren't a fly tying hook but a bait hook, very beefy and helps to balance the head in the water.
Question for the topic: What glue are you guys using to hold the heart together? I tie the Apex of the heart in at the eye, fold back and super glue - I wouldn't say its fragile but it could certainly be better.
This winter I've converted many of my big patterns to foam heads, snake flies, slammers you name it.
One thing that works also especially if you don't like the flotation is double sided tape used for hanging posters. Comes as a foam tape but also a clear very thick tape. Very strong and no need for glue. But a bit harder to shape.
I use that technique as an epoxy substitute for surf candies.
