Black Ghost

[Steamtrain]

wondering about the body of black ghosts, should i be putting head cement on the body to increase durablity. will this alter the action of the fly? would it be just a wasted step in tying them?

thanks
mike

[samson82]

you should just put some cement on one or two flies and see if it works. I tried it and didn't notice a difference. Now I tie them with yarn instead of silk. I use 1 strand of med. or fine yarn. And I did notice they lasted alot long. And over time the yarn gives the body more action.

[Chappy]

Hello,

Try using Black Diamond Braid. This will give you a very strong braided body, depending on how you twist it, will allow you to create a smooth body by filling in gaps (you don't need an even thread base), and you can still provide a wire or tinsel wrap although the black diamond braid will have some nice irridescence.

Another trick is to use black rainbow crystal flash. This also gives a nice irridescence.

I like floss also, but rough fingers gives a rough finish.

I always like to use penetrating head cement on the hook prioir to wrapping and another dispensing when the body is wrapped. The "wet" hook will help stop unravelling the material in case you slip.

Good tying..

[Boneylegs]

I have used only black wool yarn for BG bodies for years now. One plus with the wool is it'll suck up water and help give it some weight.

[BugChucka]

I've used chennille before as well.

[fessiewig]

Don't use rayon floss!!!!!!! I use a cotton floss.

[Steamtrain]

thanks everyone for your responses

i was thinking of trying to keep it classic looking with feather wings instead of marabou. now after reading the suggestions, i am going to try the black diamond braid(chappy) for the body with marabou.

i am a sellout.

good luck
mike

[Chappy]

Hi,

I am a beleiver in continuous improvement for simplicity, effect, and performance especially in fly tying.

Try using a white rabbit strip zonker style with some crystal hair tied along the sides for a lateral line.

If you are ambitious wrap a rib matuka style.

Tie some up with a cone head especially if you are looking at fishing deep holes in trout ponds all summer long... remember fast strip when the line is on the bottom.

If fishing a river, depending upon the depth, current, and river width, a variety of weights will allow you to do well under most situations.

I have found that the rabbit - if it is a realtively thin strip (not magnum) will outfish saddles hackles and marabou. However, Llama and Awesome hair outfish rabbit but it doesn't hold up to as many fish.

But I digress. Good luck!!!