# **How to Choose UTC Fly Tying Tinsel, Mirage Tinsel & Ice Blue Pearl Tinsel, Fly Tying Flash**
As an avid angler and fly-tying enthusiast, selecting the right materials can make all the difference in creating effective and visually appealing flies. Among the essential supplies, **UTC Fly Tying Tinsel, Mirage Tinsel, and Ice Blue Pearl Tinsel** stand out for their versatility and brilliance. Additionally, **Fly Tying Flash** adds that extra sparkle to attract fish.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the best tinsel and flash for your fly patterns, ensuring your creations are both durable and irresistible to fish.
## **1. Understanding UTC Fly Tying Tinsel**
UTC is a trusted brand in fly tying, known for producing high-quality materials. Their **Fly Tying Tinsel** is a must-have for streamers, nymphs, and wet flies. Here’s what to consider when choosing it:
– **Width Options** – UTC tinsel comes in various widths (XS, S, M, L). Thinner tinsel works well for delicate patterns, while wider strips are ideal for larger streamers.
– **Durability** – Unlike cheaper alternatives, UTC tinsel resists fraying, ensuring your flies last longer.
– **Reflectivity** – The metallic sheen mimics baitfish scales, making it perfect for attracting predatory fish like trout and bass.
**Best Uses:** Ribbing on nymphs, bodies on wet flies, and flash accents on streamers.
## **2. Mirage Tinsel: The Ultimate Flash Enhancer**
Mirage Tinsel is a game-changer for fly tyers who want **multi-dimensional flash**. This tinsel shifts colors depending on light and angle, creating an iridescent effect that mimics natural baitfish.
– **Color Shifting Properties** – Mirage Tinsel transitions between hues (e.g., green to purple), making it deadly in clear water.
– **Versatility** – Works well in saltwater flies, steelhead patterns, and even small trout nymphs.
– **Strength** – It’s more durable than standard mylar, so it won’t split easily when wrapping.
**Best Uses:** Saltwater flies, attractor patterns, and any fly where extra flash is needed.
## **3. Ice Blue Pearl Tinsel: Subtle Yet Effective**
For a **softer, more natural shimmer**, **Ice Blue Pearl Tinsel** is an excellent choice. Unlike metallic tinsel, this option provides a pearlescent glow that works well in clear or pressured waters where fish are wary of overly flashy flies.
– **Subtle Flash** – Ideal for trout in gin-clear streams where too much flash can spook fish.
– **Smooth Wrapping** – The flat, flexible design makes it easy to wrap tightly around hooks.
– **UV Reflection** – Some versions have UV-reactive properties, increasing visibility underwater.
**Best Uses:** Midge patterns, small nymphs, and delicate dry fly accents.
## **4. Fly Tying Flash: Adding Extra Attraction**
While tinsel provides body flash, **Fly Tying Flash** (such as Krystal Flash or Flashabou) adds **movement and extra sparkle** to wings and tails.
– **Material Choices** – Options include straight strands (Flashabou) or crinkled (Krystal Flash). Crinkled flash creates more movement in the water.
– **Color Matching** – Use complementary colors (e.g., blue flash with silver tinsel) to enhance realism.
– **Sparring Use** – Too much flash can make flies look unnatural, so use it sparingly.
**Best Uses:** Streamer tails, wing cases on nymphs, and as an accent in salmon flies.
## **Final Tips for Choosing the Right Tinsel & Flash**
1. **Match the Hatch** – Observe baitfish and insect colors in your fishing area.
2. **Consider Water Clarity** – Use brighter flash in murky water and subtler tinsel in clear conditions.
3. **Experiment** – Mix different tinsels (e.g., Mirage with Ice Blue Pearl) for unique effects.
By selecting the right **UTC tinsel and flash materials**, you can tie flies that not only look great but also **catch more fish**. Whether you’re targeting trout, bass, or saltwater species, these materials will elevate your fly-tying game.
For premium fly-tying supplies, check out **KyleBooker’s selection of UTC products**—designed for anglers who demand quality and performance.
**Tight lines and happy tying!** 🎣