Q: What is fly tying flash and why is it used?
A: Fly tying flash refers to reflective or iridescent synthetic materials added to flies to imitate the shimmer of fish scales or catch light underwater. Flash enhances visibility and attraction, helping trigger strikes from predatory fish in all light conditions.
Q: What types of flash materials are available?
A: There are many kinds, including Krystal Flash, Flashabou, Lite-Brite, Angel Hair, UV flash, and Pearl Mylar tinsel. Each offers different levels of sparkle, stiffness, and movement for specific fly styles.
Q: How do I decide how much flash to use?
A: Less is usually more. A few strands add subtle life-like shimmer, while too much can overwhelm the fly. For trout and steelhead patterns, use it sparingly; for baitfish or saltwater flies, use more for added attraction.
Q: Can flash be used in both freshwater and saltwater flies?
A: Absolutely. Flash materials perform well in any environment. In freshwater, they mimic insect glint or minnow flash; in saltwater, they replicate the bright scales of baitfish like sardines and anchovies.
Q: What’s the difference between Flashabou and Krystal Flash?
A: Flashabou is soft and highly reflective—perfect for streamers and baitfish patterns. Krystal Flash is finer, twisted, and slightly stiffer, adding a textured sparkle that works well for wings, tails, and underbodies.
Q: Are there UV or glow-in-the-dark flash materials?
A: Yes. UV flash reflects ultraviolet light, increasing visibility in low-light conditions, while glow flash emits light in the dark, ideal for deep-water or night fishing.
Q: How should I attach flash to a fly?
A: Tie it in at the tail, wing, or body depending on the pattern. Trim to desired length and distribute evenly to maintain balance and symmetry.
Q: Why carry fly tying flash at Drift Outfitters?
A: Because flash brings flies to life. Drift Outfitters stocks premium flash materials from Hareline, Wapsi, Flybox, and Semperfli so tiers can create patterns that shimmer and move naturally in any water condition.
