Collection: Fly Tying Beads

Drift - Brass Dumbbell Eyes (20pk)
Drift Outfitters

Drift - Brass Dumbbell Eyes (20pk)

Regular price $6.95
Sale price $6.95 Regular price $6.95
Slotted-Faceted Tungsten Beads
Drift Outfitters

Slotted-Faceted Tungsten Beads

Regular price From $5.59
Sale price From $5.59 Regular price $0.00
Tungsten Cone
Drift Outfitters

Tungsten Cone

Regular price From $9.45
Sale price From $9.45 Regular price $9.45
Aqua Flies - Intruder Eyes
Aqua Flies

Aqua Flies - Intruder Eyes

Regular price $6.95
Sale price $6.95 Regular price $6.95
Bead Chain Eyes
Wapsi

Bead Chain Eyes

Regular price $4.95
Sale price $4.95
EP Crab & Shrimp Eyes
Enrico Puglisi

EP Crab & Shrimp Eyes

Regular price $11.95
Sale price $11.95 Regular price $11.95
Dyna Silver Lined Glass Beads
Whalesback

Dyna Silver Lined Glass Beads

Regular price $2.95
Sale price $2.95 Regular price $2.95
Hanak RS+ Slotted Tungsten Beads
Hanak Competition Hooks

Hanak RS+ Slotted Tungsten Beads

Regular price $10.59
Sale price $10.59 Regular price
Drift - 2D Eyes (20pc)
Drift Outfitters

Drift - 2D Eyes (20pc)

Regular price $2.50
Sale price $2.50 Regular price $2.50
Wapsi Hologram Eyes
Wapsi

Wapsi Hologram Eyes

Regular price $4.95
Sale price $4.95 Regular price $4.95
Hanak - Tungsten Diamond+ Beads
Hanak Competition Hooks

Hanak - Tungsten Diamond+ Beads

Regular price $9.56
Sale price $9.56 Regular price $9.56
Fish Skull Baitfish Heads
Flymen Fishing Co

Fish Skull Baitfish Heads

Regular price $10.95
Sale price $10.95 Regular price $10.95

Explore the Beads & Eyes collection at Drift Outfitters—featuring premium beads, cones, and eyes from top brands like Hanák, Aqua Flies, Wapsi, Hareline, Enrico Puglisi, Montana Fly Co., Flymen Fishing Co., OFISHL, Spawn Fly Fish, Canadian Llama Company, Whalesback, ASD/Streamside, and more. 

Choose from tungsten, brass, glass, slotted, faceted, coneheads, bead-chain eyes, dumbbell eyes, and realistic 2D/3D eyes to add weight, flash, and lifelike profiles to nymphs, streamers, and baitfish patterns. These components ensure optimal sink rates, fish attraction, and hook concealment in all freshwater and saltwater setups. Shop online or visit in-store in Toronto for expert fly-tying materials and advice.

Fly Tying Beads FAQ

Q: What are fly tying beads used for?
A: Fly tying beads add weight and flash to nymphs, streamers, and other subsurface flies. They help flies sink faster into the strike zone while imitating the reflective look of air bubbles or natural insect movement, making them a key component in modern fly design.

Q: What types of fly tying beads do you carry?
A: Drift Outfitters carries tungsten, brass, and glass beads in various styles, including slotted, and countersunk designs. Tungsten beads are the heaviest option for fast-sinking nymphs, while brass and glass beads are ideal for lighter patterns or when subtle presentation matters.

Q: What’s the difference between tungsten and brass beads?
A: Tungsten beads are twice as dense as brass, meaning they sink faster and get your flies deep quickly — perfect for Euro nymphing and fast-moving water. Brass beads are lighter, more affordable, and ideal when you want a slower sink rate or a more delicate drift.

Q: What sizes of fly tying beads are available?
A: We stock beads ranging from 1.5mm to 6.4mm, ensuring the perfect fit for tiny midges, standard nymphs, or large streamer heads. Matching bead size to hook size ensures proper balance and fly profile at the vise.

Q: Which brands of fly tying beads do you carry?
A: Drift Outfitters carries premium beads from Hareline, Hanak, Wapsi, and Drift Outfitters. These brands are known for precision-drilled holes, high-quality finishes, and consistent sizing — essentials for professional-quality flies.

Q: What’s the difference between slotted and countersunk beads?
A: Slotted beads are designed for jig and competition-style hooks, allowing them to slide easily over angled bends. Countersunk beads fit traditional hooks and are great for most nymphs and streamers, providing classic balance and weight.

Q: How should I store fly tying beads?
A: Keep your beads sorted by size and colour in small compartment boxes or bead organizers. Label each section for easy access and store them in a dry environment to prevent tarnishing or oxidation.