Beads for Optic style flies

[Hardyrod1974 0]

I'm wanting to tie, in the traditional manner, some of the Optic series Steelhead flies that Jim Pray made popular.

What kind of beads did he use? How big were they? What is available these days and from where?

Thank you.

Richard

[flytire 0]

i use crimp covers in 1/4 inch diameter. craft stores should carry them in the bead/jewelry department as well as online stores

 

 

 

[Hardyrod1974 0]

Thank you flytire very much.

I just ordered 100 from an Amazon seller.

Do you epoxy or UV glue them in place or will head cement do?

Thank you for the pictures of your flies also. They are awesome!

Richard

[flytire 0]

you will have to crimp them in place after inserting the cover on the hook shank

then i build a small dam of thread in back of the bead to hold it in place

paint it black and paint the eyes. then overcoat wit uv resin

i use a Mustad 7970-BR hook

[Hardyrod1974 0]

Thank you again, you have been very helpful!