Tying bead heads

[Red.Fly]

I'm having some issues with getting a decent looking head behind my beads when tying and I'm wondering if any of you guys out there have any secrets to tying bead heads that will make it easier for me. I either end up with too much thread behind the bead, or a loose bead that works it's way back when fished. How do you guys get your beads to stay in place and yet still mostly conceal your thread when finishing off your fly. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Curtis Fry]

Depends on the fly, but I'll usually build up a thread "dam" behind the bead first thing before tying in any materials. In the end, it just takes some practice to know how much space to leave either way -- trial and error.

I've heard of some other good techniques too so I'm sure people will chime in with some good ones....

[fishynsmelly]

Depends on the fly, but I'll usually build up a thread "dam" behind the bead first thing before tying in any materials. In the end, it just takes some practice to know how much space to leave either way -- trial and error.

I've heard of some other good techniques too so I'm sure people will chime in with some good ones....

That works well, just be sure not to build too big of a 'dam'. Put just enough thread down to keep the bead from moving.

[CycleFish]

I assume your talking about a hollowed out cone or round bead?

A couple of wraps of lead will help fill it, as you wrap thread after the lead it will push the lead further into the bead to stop it wobbling.

Hiding the thread can be done by making an extra wrap of tying material & whipping close in behind the bead. The extra wrap helps conceal the thread.

M

[Lonnie]

A little touch of dubbing goes a long way....

L

[Red.Fly]

Thanks guys.

I guess my issue is with getting material inside the bead so that it's tight against the hook eye. Packing a couple of lead wraps in there and wrapping behind them might be the ticket.

As far as bead type, I've got multiple sizes of the round metal beads with tapered holes and several larger cone heads. The issue seams to be easier solved on a small gold bead than an 1/8 oz. cone due to the amount of space needing filled and the momentum of the cone heads when casting. Any special tips for cone heads?

[cheech]

I assume your talking about a hollowed out cone or round bead?

A couple of wraps of lead will help fill it, as you wrap thread after the lead it will push the lead further into the bead to stop it wobbling.

Hiding the thread can be done by making an extra wrap of tying material & whipping close in behind the bead. The extra wrap helps conceal the thread.

M


Good call. This is the best way I've found. It keeps the bead nice and centered.

[skighhigh]

I use a little thread ahead of the bead tied off before I slide it up to the eye then lead wraps behind..........

[nativecutt]

That way works really well. I know Dr. Barr uses that method with alot of his weighted flies i.e. copper john, tung teaser. Comes out pretty clean the way he does that.