Must Copper Johns Incorporate Epoxy?

FAOL Community Fly Anglers Online
1

I know what the “recipe” calls for, but when tying a Copper John, does one have to use epoxy, or can you get by without it?

Thanks

2

Andrew,

Nah, you don’t need epoxy. It makes the fly more durable, and the wingcase more realistic, but it’s not necessary. In fact, I’ve recently all but thrown away my epoxy, and I use Loon’s Knot Sense for the bubble.

Jude
Small flies work best. Elephants eat peanuts.
www.customflys.com

3

It’s not neccessary.

4

I use three coats of sally hanson’s hard as nails.

mgj

5

Andrew,
Are you asking if it’s ok to use nothing or if a substitute can be used?

6

I just coat the wing case with a couple coats of tying cement… Actually I use clear jighead lacquor because I had some around, gives the same shiny appearance as epoxy without all the fooling around

7

Unless it’s an order, you can tie any pattern any way you want!

[This message has been edited by lou t (edited 10 March 2005).]

8

Why not use epoxy? It looks good and amplifies the colors in the back.
Tie up a bunch then epoxy the whole group at one time.

9

Hey Guys,

First…can you use nothing? No epoxy…no cement…no whatever?

Second…I must say I know nothing of how to use epoxy - do I use the stuff at the hardware store, or do I need to visit a fly shop?

Thanks guys…your help is appreciated.

Andrew

10

I use Sally Hanson’s Hard as Nails. The effect is very similar to epoxy and I can avoid mixing, guessing the right amount, etc.

11

Andrew,

I’d say don’t even waste your money, or frustrate yourself with epoxy. Get the Loon’s Knot Sense and follow the simple instructions for an identical look to epoxy.

Jude
Small flies work best. Elephants eat peanuts.
www.customflys.com

12

Andrew,

First…can you use nothing? No epoxy…no cement…no whatever?

It’s your fly you can do what ever you think works.

Second…I must say I know nothing of how to use epoxy - do I use the stuff at the hardware store, or do I need to visit a fly shop?

Epoxy from the hardware store works fine. I don’t know what all the fuss is about I never had a problem using the stuff.

Riverdancer

Get the Loon’s Knot Sense and follow the simple instructions for an identical look to epoxy.

I have never even seen this stuff anywhere. Where do you get it?

13

The first time I tied up copper johns I just used a flashback with no epoxy. Guess what? I caught a ton of fish on them. The epoxy make the fly much more durable but by no means is it necessary to use it for the fly to be effective.

One additional benefit of tying w/out epoxy or other products is you reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals. A very minor benefit to most, but something to consider.

Tie some up and go catch some fish!

-John

14

I wonder if on those tough days the presence of something to imitate a gas bubble wouldn’t entice a few more strikes???

15

I use Anglers Choice thick it also comes in a thin too. Very easy to apply and makes great heads on flies if you dont want the weight of epoxy.

Seege