Reply To: Euro Nymph Tungsten beads sizes

Opportunities to Euro nymph have been scarce this year in this area because the lakes are high and the the flows have not allowed for wading .  I find that I’m buying more 2.5 – 3.0 beads.  I use them mostly for #16 curved short shank root-beer and ruby midges that I have confidence in here on the White R.   You can get away with a 2.0 bead on a #20 but a 1.5 bead will look better.  #18 hooks look best to me with a 2.0 bead.  I know a lot of fishermen who are favoring 60 degree jig hooks now and jig hooks require the slotted bead (don’t need to pay extra for the slotted on straight or curved shank hooks).  Last year I was black nickel but this year the copper and/or gold may be better.  A good source for beads is Jimmy Traylor at Wishes and Fishes Fly Shop in Bull Shoals, AR.  You won’t beat his prices and he has a good selection.  http://shop.flyfisharkansas.com/.  Drop by his shop if you’re in the area.  As an aside, an Euro nymph that is producing well especially for browns here is Lance Egan’s Red Dart #12.  Another good fly this year is the Sunday Special #16; it’s very similar to Walt’s Worm.  Let me know if you’re coming to the area to fish.  I’m on the river most days and maybe can help you out.