Tungston

[fshcrzy]

I see alot of tiers are using tungston beads. Does this replace the split shot weights you are using on the line or do you use both?

[Adam]

yes...tungsten is approximately 40% more dense than lead...quicker sink rate...but don't throw out your other beads...they have their place as well.

[AaronJasper]

Adam,

You take great notes

[LopatNympher]

besides its higher density, its more evironmentally sound than lead.

[alanb_ct]

fshcrzy: Please let me expand on this a little. European nymphing relies on heavy flies with slim profiles. An easy way to achieve weight is with a tungsten bead. In the traditional sense, this means that no other weight is added to the leader. If you don't have the required Euro-style flies, you can get by and catch lots of fish using your regular nymphs and alternate weighting schemes including lead shot. It is fair to say that most of beaded flies fly shops sell use brass beads, unless they specifically say tungsten. Brass beads are much cheaper than tungsten. As Lopat says, tungsten does not harm the environment like lead, but many flies incorporate tungsten AND lead wire. If you want to try Euro nymphing with your current nymphs weighted or unweighted, I would take what you have, weight the leader with shot, and simply get rid of the traditional indidcators.

Many of us here learned about these methods through the classes offered by Aaron, or attending his many presentations. This is the quickest way up the learning curve, but you may also search through this forum and see most everything. There is no substitute for just getting out there and trying it.

[Davyfly]

No doubt at all that tungsten beads have made a great deal of difference, and for many have made life way easier to catch fish, as already said here lead shot can be eliminated in many circumstances.

Davy

[fshcrzy]

Thanks to everyone for your replies. I currently fish with a strike indicator, I believe I'll have to try the Euro method and see how it works. Sounds like a challenge to me.

[LopatNympher]

Its actually pretty easy to pick up. Rubberlips gave me a crash course a couple of weeks ago and I had my first fish in no time at all.

[Adam]

I believe I'll have to try the Euro method and see how it works.

You are on the right site for information....

[z.bearden]

From what I have read about the Czechs dont really like to cram a load of lead on their hooks. They use the profile of their flies and the materials to change how fast they sink. Certain types of dubbing absorb water better than others. Antron for example will hold water really well and slide right through the water. Rabbit on the other hand is a bit more buoyant and will slow the sink rate.

Therefore if I really want a fly that is going to cut through the water I put my lead on there then choose my dubbing accordingly.

I'm not trying to say anyones way of weighting their flies is wrong and definitely not trying to step on anyones toes. I still have a bunch of beads in my boxes but when it comes down to my "czech nymphs" this is how I know how fast they will sink.