Homemade Indicators

[mic]

I've been trying to find an indicator that works with my setup and abilities. I've tried them all. I found an article on making them at home. I didn't really like their instructions because they were still to big so I tweaked it a little bit.

1. Start with real small o-rings. I started with the second and third smallest I could find, but I think I could have gone smaller.

2. Then use midge flash or sheet foam. Cut the amount of midge flash you think you will need and/or just enough foam to fit in the o-ring. Slide the o-ring over a pair of forceps or small needle nose and grab the flash in the middle. Slide the foam in by hand.

3. On the flash, roll the o-ring over the flash to the middle and fold over. Simply fold the foam over. Then tightly wrap thread around the material and add a single drop of super glue on the thread on each side of the indicator. Trim the excess the line. Finally cut the foam as you see fit and trim the flash to the height you prefer.

4. I haven't tried them yet, but I don't know why they won't work. I'll report after my next trip. A final note, the article said to play with the size of the o-ring until you find one that won't slip.

[flytyer57]

I would put a LOT of floatant on that indicator made with the midge flash. I just can't see that stuff floating too well.

[mic]

I would put a LOT of floatant on that indicator made with the midge flash. I just can't see that stuff floating too well.

I was wondering that to. I'll let you know.

[dave potts]

I was wondering that to. I'll let you know.

Same with the foam. Be sure to use closed cell foam. What you get at the hobby stores will often absorb water and sink.

Dave

[dennis boatman]

I'd add a hook...

[Ill Trout Bum]

Mc Flylon makes an excellent indicator material as does Glo-Bug yarn. treat both with a dry fly floatant and they will last all day.

[Ill Trout Bum]

I'd add a hook...

I've added a size 14 scud hook and had a friend catch a trout while using the indicator.

[flytyer57]

I've added a size 14 scud hook and had a friend catch a trout while using the indicator.

Hmmmm...

Isn't that the whole idea behind the "hopper & dropper"?

[Buzz]

Hmmmm...

Isn't that the whole idea behind the "hopper & dropper"?

Funny you should say that. I have been using those foam stick on indicators for years and have had some absolute pigs come up and suck them in. So last weekend I was thinking....Why not make an indicator fly? Yep, a foam indicator with a #14 dry fly hook inside. I haven't used them yet, but since I seldom ever have any luck with a big dry and dropper I think I'll give it a try, at Roaring River at least.

[flytyer57]

Funny you should say that. I have been using those foam stick on indicators for years and have had some absolute pigs come up and suck them in. So last weekend I was thinking....Why not make an indicator fly? Yep, a foam indicator with a #14 dry fly hook inside. I haven't used them yet, but since I seldom ever have any luck with a big dry and dropper I think I'll give it a try, at Roaring River at least.

Just make sure you tie your hook to the tippet and not just pinch it between the foam indicator and the learder.