Stone fly questions

[WEEZER]

I was wondering what size hooks do you anglers use for tying up stones flies(Nymphs).
I currently use #8 streamer hooks.They match the size of the stonefly shucks that I see along the banks, But I haven't had any luck with them. Any other suggestions?
I heard that you should tie the body of a stone nymph really skinny; Is that true?
Thanks ~Rick

[Steve]

WEEZ, I don't get too picky about the hook sizes and types that I use especially with streamers and nymphs. The fly tying books will always specify a particular hook, but I just try to get as close as I can.

[gmaschke]

Most stone flys are 6 and 8 and in black and I've even heard of a few 4's being used. Browns or Golden Stones are typically smaller. I'm no pro so a lot of what I know is what I've been told. I do know that from a top view they should have a wider profile and from the side appear thinner. If you weight the fly flatten the lead with pliars that will aid in the wied yet thin look.

[Erik]

Say guys, I was reading STS magazine the other day. And there was an article about winter steelhead from Ontario. The author says that one of the first "hatches" occur in early march. Just as soon as the ice begins to disappear. He says that black stone flies are the steelheads favorite. Evan more than fresh roe. What do you guys think? Anybody have an opinion on this? And what about a good "match the hatch" presentation? I believe the author said he likes black wooly buggers.
Thanks for any help!


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Phish

Well at least the black Whooly Buggers are easy to tie ;)