Fly Tying Thread


Here you’ll learn about fly tying thread, how it’s used, and what we use to tie Buggs. The term pretty much says it all. This is the thread that holds all the materials on the hook. It’s held on a spool, and looks the same as the stuff to make clothes, quilts, and other items. But because there are lots of different types and sizes of flies, there are lots of different types of thread.

I’ve been tying for more than 15 years, am largely self taught, and tie larger flies and jigs almost exclusively. So that’s where this advice will be geared to. I can tell you with absolute certainty that I’ve found the best fly tying thread for these types of flies and jigs. The strength is right, the colors are numerous, and they build a really nice, clean head.

The Only Thread You’ll Need


If you’re tying Buggs (the coolest and most effective jigs on the plantet!), Bass Flies, Saltwater Flies, and anything else in the crappie jig size and larger, here’s your thread! It’s called Danville’s 210 Denier Waxed Flymaster Plus. Danville Chenille Co., Inc. makes the stuff, and they’re located in Danville, New Hampshire, right here in the U.S.A.

Here’s what the rest of the name means. Denier is the thickness of the thread. This thread is 210 Denier, and we chose it because it’s the perfect combination of size and strength. Here’s why they’re important. Size is important so you can securely grip materials and build up a nice clean head on a fly or jig. The thread holds materials on the hook. It needs to be strong enough to hold them securely, especially the larger materials you’ll use when tying Buggs and other large flies and jigs. And when you’re finishing a Bugg, fly, or jig, you’ll want a nice, clean set of thread wraps to whip finish and apply head cement. This thread fits the bill!

This is a nylon thread, and it’s waxed. It’s hard to describe what unwaxed thread is like to tie with. It feels like the fibers could come apart, and they’re dry. Waxed thread holds them together, and just works better. And a last word on strength, this thread is strong enough to crank down pretty hard on zonker strips and magnum strips to secure them to the hook shank. But it will break, so it’s good to practice and know how hard to crank down.

Buy Thread Here

I hoped you learned something about fly tying thread, but most of all I hope you’ll tie your own Buggs and get out there and fish them. I believe the greatest thrill in fishing is to catch a fish on something you tied or made yourself!

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