Hooks for charlies

[skipjack]

Hi. I'll be fishing for bonefish in February and I need some advice on the type of hooks to use for tying Charlies.
Are charlies always tied using long shank hooks? What are the advantages? Any hooks to recommend and what are the suitable sizes?
I'll really appreciate any help I can get.

Skipjack

[DonWil]

Hi go to this web sight, I sure someone there can help you out. http://www.outdoors.net/forums/index.asp?Forum=FlyFishing

[skipjack]

Thanks. Will check out the site.

[niantic1]

Skipjack,

I tied up a few dozen charlies for a trip to Andros Island a few years ago. I just found the hooks I was using. They are Tiemco TMC 811S hooks in a size 4. These particular hooks, as the box says, are stainless steel, straight eye, standard length, extra strong forged hooks. They were recommended to me by the owner of the Fairfield Fly shop here in Ct. I also brought a few in size 2 and 6. Once in Andros the guides had us throwing charlies about 90% of the time. They were very effective. Good luck.

[Ray]

I use size 4 Mustad SS hooks. Size 2 can work, but the proportions are not correct.

[flytyer]

Generally Crazy Charlies are tied on size 4 and 6. Size 2 for larger bones as on Andros. Standard length shank hooks are the best. I have not seen too many tied on a long shank hook.

Mustad 34007 is a stainless hook. The Mustad 3407 is a plated and less expensive hook. The Tiemco 811S and 800S are very good choices if you want to spend the money.

If you will be doing a lot of saltwater fly fishing, I would strongly recommend a stainless hook. Stainless steel bead chain for the eyes as well.

Make sure that you wash your flies after use.

[donrik]

Tie some Gotchas and Simrams too. You will need more than one pattern and more than one color and size to fish whatever waters you are going to. Good Luck....Rick