Eyes

[Willie Bodger]

So, when tying patterns that call for colored eyes, like a Christmas Island Special, is the color of the eyes important? If so, then what do you use to paint the eyes, some special paint or do you just buy pre-painted eyes?

Willie

[ceviche]

There's this powder paint that works great for metal dumbbell eyes. You apply it by first heating the dumbbell and then immerse it into the powder. Use a long pair of tweezers and don't leave the dumbbell in the paint powder for too long. The paint forms a very hard coat. If the paint looks a little matte, you can touch it up with a Bic lighter. Apply the pupils with a Sharpie pen.

Where to get it? I got mine in Baltimore, but I think I've seen it around locally somewhere. It might have been Hook, Line, and Sinker (is that the correct name?) in south Arlington, on Smokey Pt. Road.

[Willie Bodger]

OK, I'll look into that, thanks.

Willie

[Grey-Sedge]

I wouldn't get too excited about the color of the eyes for Christmas Island flys, they will eat just about anything that you throw out there. I would pay more attention to the hook to make sure you land them. I made one trip with only 4+ size hooks and 10 lb. plus tippets and didn't notice any problems with hookups on any patterns. Have fun!

[Dave Alberts]

Check out the Global Flyfisher article at : http://globalflyfisher.com/tiebetter/eyes/

I haven't tried it yet but it does look promising.

Dave