FIN-ITE 34

https://bagolures.com/collections/crawler-harness-beads

https://www.lurepartsonline.com/Lure-Making/Shop-By-Product-Category/Bodies-Beads-Rig-Floats/Beads/Plastic-Beads?page=1

You need a hook to practice on, so I would say use the hooks you have and as you progress in tying, start buying better hooks. And don't worry about losing a +20" fish because of a bent or broken hook as it happens with quality hooks as well, just not as often.

Kelly Galloup says "hook in front".

Common procedure as used on the Holy Grail to bump out the collar. https://youtu.be/ctlez5CUFKw

You are absolutely correct about the ring profile. I too have had brands of rings that have a more square than round edge and no matter the knot, it failed when using any tippet size of 5x or smaller. With a good ring I use a simple clinch and have no problems. One to stay away from is HENDS. Two that are round, PARTRIDGE & CORTLAND.

You getting ready for a Red Dawn or something? #Wolverines

Yes, you are missing out on what should be made illegal it works so well. All you need is a ten foot 3 weight Euro nymph rod and a Euro nymph level line. You can go big on the rod or start with a lesser expensive model for 250-350 ( or have Steve make you one). The soft tip and heavy backbone of these rods are key when Euro nymphing. I can beat up 20"+ browns all day with a 10 ft 3 wt. The line will set you back 50 quid no matter whose you buy. A spool of bi or tri color indicator tippet is probably the only other thing you don't already have on hand to make up a Euro mono leader. Watch all the Tactical Fly Fisher videos and then go out and put into practice what you watch. Depending on how often you can get out, you should see marked improvement after a dozen times out. Begin tying Euro style nymphs and streamers (jig style) and use these, as they will work far, far better when using the Euro tight line technique.

Unless the sizes have changed this is what I can fit in a size small Fish Skull. MFC 7050 #4 Gamakatsu SP11-3l3H #4 Gamakatsu B10S #4 Daiichi 2460 #2 Firehole 811 #6 Some required a slight push, but they went on.

On both counts you are doing a nice job. My reference to the Keystone Kops (Cops) was in regards to all the little accidents that you seemed to endure in your early videos. I just thought it comical. Here is a short video that would explain my reference. https://youtu.be/GwUUUqgfu-E

Antron Sparkle Dub or Polar Dub.

Second posted link works for me. Mac, you really are doing some nice tying videos now. However I do miss those Keystone Cop fishing videos that you posted in your earlier days. 😃

Try supporting the hook shank with your left hand when compressing the hair with your right.

What are the specific differences between the two blanks besides the color?