Good Nymph Hook

[nick s]

I have only recently started fly tying and I am looking for a good hook for bead head nymphs. Ideally it should be short shanked and relatively strong. The best match for what I am looking for is the Skalka WN1 (see Jan Siman's website). They look excellent but annoyingly don't go smaller than size 16. Does anyone have any experience of this Skalka hook and further, can anyone recommend any other similar style hooks as an alternative? Thanks, N

[Spider]

Nick, I have used Skalka and wasnt hugely impressed. I feel the point of the hook comes too far up the shank which can lead to the fly not catching the mouth as well as others. Spidersplus does a better one ( Dohiku i think ) , but I found Kamasan B170 and B175 ( lovely size 16 model ) with a crushed down barb to be excellent.

[Macmagoo]

Dohiku hooks are excellent. I also like Grip hooks for dry fly's. Have a look at The Fly Tying Boutique. Phil will keep you right if you email him regarding the hooks that he sells.

[ickypimp]

I use alot of Gamakatsu fly hooks, the GP303 nymph hook is a nice hook, it is micro barbed though...

[craigie]

dohiku hdg644 size 16 great nymph hook.

[mancfly]

Kamasan B911 Eyed, Barbless Wide Gape are excellent for curved or short body bead head nymphs. They have a long curved point which hooks and holds fish well. Meant for carp match fishing, they are medium wire and very strong. Sizes 12 -20.

[nick s]

Thanks for the replies, very helpful as always. N