# **How to Choose HARELINE TUNGSTEN CONEHEADS – Fly Tying Cone Beads – Black, Copper, Gold, Nickel**
When it comes to fly tying, the right materials can make all the difference in creating effective and durable flies. One essential component that enhances both functionality and aesthetics is the **Hareline Tungsten Conehead**. These cone beads are popular among fly anglers for their weight, durability, and sleek design, making them ideal for nymphs, streamers, and other subsurface patterns.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the best **Hareline Tungsten Coneheads** for your fly tying needs, covering key factors such as size, color, and application.
—
## **Why Choose Tungsten Coneheads?**
Before diving into selection tips, it’s important to understand why tungsten is the preferred material for coneheads:
– **Density & Sinking Speed**: Tungsten is significantly denser than brass or lead, allowing flies to sink faster—a crucial advantage in deep or fast-moving water.
– **Durability**: Unlike softer metals, tungsten resists deformation, ensuring long-lasting performance.
– **Eco-Friendly**: Unlike lead, tungsten is non-toxic, making it a safer choice for the environment.
Hareline’s tungsten coneheads are precision-machined for a smooth finish, reducing line wear and improving fly movement.
—
## **Key Factors When Selecting Hareline Tungsten Coneheads**
### **1. Size Matters**
Hareline offers coneheads in multiple sizes (e.g., **1/8″, 3/16″, 1/4″**). The right size depends on:
– **Hook Size**: Larger hooks (e.g., #2-6 for streamers) pair well with bigger cones, while smaller hooks (e.g., #12-16 for nymphs) need smaller cones.
– **Water Conditions**: Fast currents or deep pools require heavier cones for better penetration.
### **2. Color Selection – Black, Copper, Gold, Nickel**
Hareline’s coneheads come in multiple finishes, each with unique advantages:
– **Black**: Subtle and natural, ideal for imitating dark-bodied prey like leeches or stoneflies.
– **Copper**: Great for warm-water species (bass, panfish) or mimicking crayfish.
– **Gold**: Attracts fish in stained or murky water due to its reflective properties.
– **Nickel**: A neutral, shiny option that works well in clear water or when matching minnow patterns.
### **3. Application – Nymphs vs. Streamers**
– **Nymphs**: Smaller coneheads (1/8″) help maintain a natural drift while adding weight.
– **Streamers**: Larger cones (3/16″ or 1/4″) provide extra mass for aggressive stripping retrieves.
—
## **Tying Tips for Hareline Tungsten Coneheads**
– **Secure Placement**: Slide the cone onto the hook shank before tying in materials to prevent slippage.
– **Thread Locking**: Use strong thread (e.g., 210-denier) and a bead adhesive if needed.
– **Balanced Proportions**: Ensure the cone doesn’t overpower the fly—adjust materials accordingly.
—
## **Final Thoughts**
Choosing the right **Hareline Tungsten Conehead** can significantly improve your fly’s effectiveness. Consider water conditions, target species, and fly type when selecting size and color. Whether you’re tying weighted nymphs for trout or flashy streamers for bass, these coneheads offer unmatched performance.
For premium-quality tungsten coneheads, check out **KyleBooker’s selection**—designed for serious anglers who demand the best. Tight lines!
*(Word count: 520)*