Question On Hooks

[snagged in outlet 3]

I'm out of size 18 dry fly hooks and can't any today. Do you think I could substitute a #18 scud hook to tie an emerger like a Dan's or chuck's. Would the hook be too heavy or deform the shape of the fly too much? Let me hear everybodies thoughts on it. Maybe John Berry or Dano could chime in? Thanks in advance guys.

SIO3

[Danoinark]

Here's a thought if you have some size 16 scud hooks, don't go past the start of the bend of the hook and you will have a size 18. I don't see a problem with tying them on a scud hook, you have a nice gap too.

Dano

[snagged in outlet 3]

Thanks Dano. I found some #18's but they are straight eye hooks. What is the difference in turned down eyes and straight?

SIO3

[Danoinark]

Probably the most important thing would be the action. Turned down would allow the nymph, etc to "hang" more downward when drifting. But at the same time if you are using a bushy thorax with a turned down eye then you have less hook gap in my opinion. I like a straight eye for dry flies especially. Either one will work for your purpose.

Dano

[Gavin]

I'd avoid a #18 scud hook..had a lot of trouble with fish coming unbuttoned on scud hoods smaller than a #14..Switched to a straight eye for all the nymphs that I used to tie on #16 and below scud hooks and no more problems with fish coming off. Cheers.