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Flat and embossed tinsel bodies
Wayne Luallen

 

The question has been raised why some Atlantic Salmon, Steelhead and classic (Carrie Steven’s style) streamer fly tiers wrap flat tinsel bodies on flies from front to back to front again rather than just back to front. I believe this is a question worthy of review in available historical refer­ences. Is there an accepted “correct” approach? Which is better, metal or Mylar?

Mylar tinsel is often used in place of metal tinsels due to availability and the fact that it does not tarnish over time. Bill McMillan, well known for his effective steelhead patterns, told me of his preference for Mylar tinsel that he wraps from back to front only. He avoids separation/gaps by very slightly overlapping the Mylar.

Wayne prefers metal tinsel over Mylar. Properly applied it is more durable in fishing than Mylar.  Find out more by reading the entire article.

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