Hook for small midge larva?

All about flies Fly Tying
1

Wondering what hook brand / model you would recommend for small (eg, #20) midge larva like the Zebra Midge? I have been using #18 Dai Riki 125 hooks. I like the size and shape of these, especially the larger hook gape. However, the wire seems a bit on the light side. Between subsurface snags and unhooking fish, my flies are getting bent / mangled quicker than I’d like. Something with a similar size / shape, but heavier wire would be ideal.

2

I use the Dai Riki 135 for subsurface flies, the 125 for emergers and dry flies. The wire on a 135 is about 50% heavier than the 125.

Ted

3

I agree with Ted; the DR 135 is what I use. No problems with hooks straightening out.

Regards,
Scott

4

I prefer the TMC 2488 or 2488H

PT/TB

5

Thanks. That TMC 2488H might be what I want, but a scud hook like the DaiRiki 135 is probably more economical

6

I just recently purchased some Hanak H260-BL hooks. Straight shank but short with a wide gap and extra heavy wire. I really like them. But, they aren’t cheap.

Joe

7

Another vote for the 2488H

8

I, too, am a big fan of the TMC 2488. Strike King also has a hook that is very very close to the TMC2488.

9

John,

You also might want to take a look at the TMC 113 BLH hook which is the heavier version of the TMC 103 BL Hook in standard sizes …

This is a little simple Baetis tied on a #20, 113 BLH using CDL Tail, Olive Polish Quill, GG 14/0 Red Hot Spot, and Black Tiemco 16/0 thread for the base and head - * coat with UV Resin.

I haven’t tied any midges on them yet, but I’m thinking a simple pheasant tail abdomen, Gold or Copper Lagartun x-fine wire and 16/0 Tiemco or Veevus thread base and head might take a Trout or two…:wink:

PT/TB

10

Would echo those like the Tiemco TMC2488 & TMC2488H but I also use the TMC2457 and the Dai Riki 075 (1XS) for smaller patterns (resembles TMC113BLH PT mentioned but not barbless). Dai Riki 135 is a good hook as is the Daiichi 1120 but the TMC2457 seems a bit heavier to my eye, and it will be some time before I burn through my existing supply and start looking for an alternative.