how to tie on a fly

Fulling Mill Tungsten Beads

# **How to Choose Fulling Mill Tungsten Beads for Fly Fishing**

As an avid angler, you know that the right tackle can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. One of the most crucial components in modern fly fishing is the **tungsten bead**, which adds weight to nymphs and streamers, helping them sink quickly to the strike zone. Among the top brands in the industry, **Fulling Mill** stands out for its high-quality tungsten beads. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when selecting **Fulling Mill Tungsten Beads** for your fly tying needs.

## **1. Understanding Tungsten Beads vs. Traditional Materials**

Before diving into Fulling Mill’s offerings, it’s essential to understand why tungsten beads are superior to traditional brass or lead alternatives.

– **Density**: Tungsten is significantly denser than brass, allowing for smaller beads that still provide the necessary weight. This means less bulk and a more natural presentation.
– **Durability**: Tungsten is extremely hard, resisting dings and scratches better than softer metals.
– **Environmental Friendliness**: Unlike lead, tungsten is non-toxic, making it a safer choice for waterways.

Fulling Mill’s tungsten beads are precision-machined for consistency, ensuring reliable performance on every cast.

## **2. Choosing the Right Size**

Fulling Mill offers tungsten beads in a variety of sizes, typically measured in millimeters (mm). The size you choose depends on:

– **Water Depth & Current Speed**: Faster, deeper water requires larger beads (e.g., 3.5mm–4.5mm) to get your fly down quickly. Slower, shallower streams may only need 2.0mm–3.0mm beads.
– **Fly Size & Hook Gap**: A bead that’s too large can interfere with hooking efficiency. Match the bead diameter to the hook size—smaller beads (2.0mm–2.8mm) for #16–#20 hooks, and larger beads (3.5mm–5.0mm) for #8–#12 hooks.

## **3. Selecting the Best Finish**

Fulling Mill tungsten beads come in multiple finishes, each serving a different purpose:

– **Natural Tungsten (Gunmetal)**: A neutral, non-reflective finish ideal for wary fish in clear water.
– **Gold & Copper**: Mimics the flash of natural prey like caddis pupae or emerging insects.
– **Black & Colored Beads**: Useful for low-light conditions or when imitating dark-bodied nymphs.

Consider the water clarity and the insects you’re imitating when choosing a finish.

## **4. Slotted vs. Non-Slotted Beads**

Fulling Mill offers both **slotted** and **non-slotted** tungsten beads:

– **Slotted Beads**: Feature a groove that helps secure the bead in place when tying, preventing slippage. Great for flies where precise bead positioning matters (e.g., jig-style nymphs).
– **Non-Slotted Beads**: Offer a smooth profile, ideal for traditional nymph patterns where the bead sits flush against the hook eye.

## **5. Weight Considerations**

While tungsten is already denser than brass, Fulling Mill provides different weight options within their bead range:

– **Standard Tungsten Beads**: Great for most nymphing situations.
– **Extra-Heavy Tungsten Beads**: Designed for extreme depth or fast currents where extra weight is needed.

If you’re fishing deep pools or heavy currents, opt for the extra-heavy variants to maintain control.

## **Final Tips for Using Fulling Mill Tungsten Beads**

– **Experiment with Colors**: Carry a variety of finishes to match different hatches and lighting conditions.
– **Balance Bead & Fly Size**: A bead that’s too large can make the fly sink unnaturally fast.
– **Pair with the Right Hook**: Use strong, high-quality hooks (like Fulling Mill’s competition hooks) to handle the extra weight.

By carefully selecting the right **Fulling Mill Tungsten Bead** for your fishing situation, you’ll improve your nymphing success and land more fish. Whether you’re targeting trout, steelhead, or panfish, these beads provide the perfect balance of weight, durability, and realism.

**Tight lines and happy fishing!**

— *Your friends at KyleBooker Fishing*