I get this question all the time: “how to I attach a loop eye to an eyeless hook? Is there a video showing it?” Every single time, I tell myself I’m going to make a simple video about it, but the idea soon falls victim to the same fate as new years resolutions. The topic came up again recently and it reminded me that this has been on my to-do list a long time. Now, instead of re-explaining it every time, I can just reference this video. You might find it useful too if you get the same kinds of questions from people interested in tying on eyeless hooks. Please note that I will not be tying a full fly--I’m only briefly showing how to attach the loop. After that, you can simply tie the rest of your fly as you normally would. I hope you find this helpful!
Damn you look skinny!
I guess you didn’t know … I was recently diagnosed with severe liver cirrhosis (among other things). I lost most of my fat and muscle mass. I’m slowly gaining it back, but yeah, I definitely haven’t looked like my sexy self for a while. 🙁
Mr. Klass, is there no adhesive needed to secure the threading to the hookshaft? I get that it can be added, but is it needed? I’ve been reluctant to rely only on the thread tensions to hold it together.
Hmm, maybe with Dacron backing, the texture helps. I often do it with nylon mono, and that slick material seemed toe like it needed some more.
Thanks for the quick clean video.
Hi Jason, well if you watch the video again starting at 02:45, I mention that it’s a stronger lash if you use thinner thread like 8/0. I never use glue and still have never had one fail. I suppose you could form the loop and put a dab of glue on the shank, then just place the loop on it until it dries. The only problem I see with that is it makes it more difficult (and messier) to adjust the size of the loop. I think sliding it through the thread gives you better control and accuracy. And to play Devil’s advocate, one could say that glue can fail. Depending on the type, it could become weakened by flexing, sunlight, water, etc.. Why don’t you do an experiment? Tie one with glue and one with only thread. Then either do a torque test to see if there’s a difference in breaking strength. I don’t have the equipment to measure this otherwise I would. Or you could just ballpark it and hook them on something, pull, and see if there’s a noticeable difference.
Hi Jason, I would like to learn whether this type of eye causes any difference in the way the fly is fished or if it appears different to the fish. For instance, does it give more action to the fly? Would have the same effect as tying the eyed hook on with a loop in the tipper? Learning, learning – always learning…
Hi Chris, you would think that it would impart more action, but it doesn’t. I was pretty disappointed when I started studying the movement underwater–it’s the same as an eyed hook. So why then would anyone want to use an eyeless hook? For one thing, they’re the easiest flies to thread you’ve ever seen. So anyone with failing eyesight will like that. They also give you as a tyer another avenue to get creative with different materials and colors for the loop.
But in all honesty, I’ve seen no evidence to suggest that flies with loop eyes have better action or catch more fish. They’re little more than a nod to tradition. And I’m OK with that. 🙂
Very nice video, thanks for documenting this for folks interested in tinkering with these types of kebari. You’ve inspired me to dig out some of those eyeless hooks I’ve acquired over the years and give it another go.
P.S. Great to have you posting regularly again. The community is a better place with your voice and we appreciate your approach toward the various facets of tenkara.
Thanks Mike! I’ve been impressed with the sheer volume of quality content you’ve been putting out! I had a great talk with Jason S. today. We should brainstorm some ideas together.
Thanks! And sounds like a plan… looking forward to it.
Hi Jason,
Where do you get your eyeless hooks? Ive searched around the web and can only seem to locate some bigger mustad hooks. Thanks for posting the video i’d love to give these a try.
Hi Ryan, I bought a large number of mine through Tenkara Bum. I don’t know if he still sells them or not. You cna sometimes find them on eBay or Amazon. Plat has some: https://www.plat.co.jp/shop/catalog/default/language/en/cPath/5092_3085_3089/tenkara-fly/keiryu-hook/oh-super-yamame.html . Just Google around and you’ll find them. It just depends on which kind you want.
Jason, it’s better to attach the loop not from the top of the hook, but from the bottom. Like old fly-fishing flies.
Why?
http://www.hi-ho.ne.jp/amago/b-streams/flytying/tenkara3.html
Look carefully, the loop is wound from below. To your question: Why? I will answer: Hooking (secure) at the hook is better.
OK, I see. However, in my experience, it makes no difference if it’s on top or bottom. And, not all eyeless hook have that tab. Some are just the end of the rounded wire, in which case it doesn’t make a difference.
the hook can be any, but we are talking about the Japanese Kuban, about Japanese traditions.😊
Jason, a pleasure as always to hear from you on all things tenkara. Look forward to much more my friend.
I WISH YOU WELL SIR
Jason
Thanks for a great video! Sure is good to see you doing this again and it helps me get through a cold Wisconsin winter