I am a believer in glass beaded flies. I have some flies that the body is made entirely of beads and these flies work well on tailwater trout in TN. I like to use crystal or clear beads alot because I believe they look like a bubble of air moving around in the water.

You can buy beads at Joanns and Michaels, a couple of the big box hobby stores. There are also small specialty bead stores that foster the jewelry making craft. I found some really nice, but expensive gold flake beads at a specialty store that I like. I use them instead of a gold plated metal bead head.

You mainly want beads that are either 11/0, 8/0 or 6/0/ in size. The larger the number the smaller the bead. Not all small beads will fit around the bend in a given hook size or type.

While most of us beginners struggle with the feather and fur, I believe we are missing a great opportunity with the use of beads. Anyone else feel this way or had similar experiences?