Chuck:
A couple of suggestions. I tie similar patterns though I
save the Awesome hair for salt water and pike. Don't underestimate
the size hook that bluegills or crappie can get down. I use mainly
salt water hooks to tie my minnow patterns. A Gamakatsu SC15 is my
favorite. I'll use size 4 and 2's to tie a 1 1/2 to 3 inch minnow.
If you don't want to use a salt water hook. The Mustad 3366 is a
decent choice, size 1 to 4. Also check out "Mosquito" hooks and Drop
shot hooks. If you can find Spinner Bait trailer hooks in smaller sizes. I
have some in size 4 that are good for this type of fly.
One thing I've noticed, at least in this area, is that too
much flash often spooks the fish in the local creek. So I tend to minimize
my flash, using material like Angel Hair and blending it at a 1 to 1
ratio(1 pack of flash, 1 pack of hair) with some type of
artificial hair. I may have to try blending Awesome Hair with
the other hairs and see what comes out.
With the smaller flies, you're going to have to be sparser
with the material. Normally I tie in a belly wing the length I want
the fly to be. The middle wing is tied a 1/4 to 1/2 inch shorter,
top wing is the same length as the bottom wing. I use clear
mono thread, the thinnest that I can get hold of. Once I've finished
off the tying. I add a drop of Zap-a-Gap to secure them.
After it dries, I'll hold the fly, keeping my fingers on the head area,
then use a pet comb to come it out. This helps taper the fly and get
the knots and kinks out of the Awesome hair.
Before adding eyes, I use some Flex-Loc(Byard carries it) to
lightly coat the front of the fly, the length of the shank. This
will help hold the shape. Add eyes, and then I coat the eyes with
either silicone or 5 minute epoxy to make sure they stay on.
Jerry C
"All things considered, I'd rather be in Philadelphia."
