Choosing the right fly tying thread, tinsel and wire can mean the difference between a good fly and a great fly. With so many different options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. In this blog post, we'll break down the different types of thread, tinsel and wire so you can make an informed decision when shopping for your next batch of fly tying materials.

Fly Tying Thread

There are two main types of thread used in fly tying: nylon and polyester. Nylon is the most popular choice for fly tying because it is strong and versatile. Polyester is also a popular choice because it is less likely to break than nylon. However, polyester is not as strong as nylon and can be more difficult to work with. When choosing a thread for your flies, consider what type of flies you will be tying and what strength and durability you will need from your thread.

Tinsel

Tinsel is used to add weight, bulk and flash to your flies. There are two main types of tinsel: flat and round. Flat tinsel is less visible in the water than round tinsel, making it a good choice for nymphs and emergers. Round tinsel is more visible in the water than flat tinsel, making it a good choice for streamers and baitfish patterns. When choosing tinsel for your flies, consider what type offly you will be tying and how visible you want your fly to be in the water.

Wire

Wire is used to add weight, bulk and flash to your flies. There are two main types of wire: copper and stainless steel. Copper wire is less visible in the water than stainless steel wire, making it a good choice for nymphs and emergers. Stainless steel wire is more visible in the water than copper wire, making it a good choice for streamers and baitfish patterns. When choosing wire for your flies, consider what type of fly you will be tying and how visible you want your fly to be in the water.

Now that you know more about the different types of thread, tinsel and wire available, you can make an informed decision when shopping for your next batch of fly tying materials. If you have any questions or would like help choosing the right materials for your project, please don't hesitate to contact us! We're always happy to help.