Introduction To Veevus GSP Thread vs Regular Thread
The very idea of fly tying as a pastime and an art actually relates to the material employed to make such intricate flies. Thread is probably the very thinnest of what makes perfect, durable, strong, and functional flies. For quite some time, many were left puzzled regarding why on earth they would consider Veevus GSP thread as opposed to regular thread due mainly to the variation in terms of strength but not in terms of versatility. This article breaks down the characteristics of each, to help you decide which is best for your fly-tying needs.
The Role of Thread in Fly Tying
Before I get into the details of comparison of Veevus GSP to typical threads, I need to make sure you understand the general role of thread in fly tying. Typically, a thread holds other materials like feathers, fur, and synthetic fibers to the hook. It should be strong yet workable and suitable for the size and style of fly you are making. Different tying styles of flies-the delicate dry fly or an even robust streamer-even rely on the properties of the thread they are wound on to the quality and longevity of the fly.
What is Veevus GSP Thread?
Veevus GSP is a relatively new advancement in the fly-tying world, which features an unbeatable strength-to-diameter ratio. The material of choice is gel-spun fibers that provide far greater strength than most traditional fly threads.
Strength and Durability
Its extreme strength, another prominent feature of Veevus GSP can be seen in the comparison in which the 50 denier version of Veevus GSP is much stronger compared to most regular 140 denier threads. This means it can withstand extreme tension without breaking, and its robustness is very much suitable for tying big flies or saltwater patterns needing resistance of multiple hooks before the line breaks loose. Another reason why GSP threads are so strong and long-lasting is that they don’t fray easily.
Tapered body
Even though very strong, GSP thread has a ridiculously thin diameter allowing tiers to create clean, neat bodies with minimal bulk. This comes in handy in those patterns that require finesse-such as nymphs or tiny dry flies-where extra bulk is especially unwanted. The skinny profile also lets tiers wrap on a bunch of materials without adding weight or bulk to the fly.
Smooth Profile
This slickness of the Veevus GSP thread can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, its slick surface allows it to lay flat and snug on the hook shank, resulting in the appearance being neater. On the other hand, its slipperiness will make handling extremely tricky for anyone who is quite a beginner and even when working with slippery materials like synthetic fibers or dubbing.
What is Regular Fly Tying Thread?
When we refer to regular thread in fly tying, it’s usually nylon or polyester types-the good old standard materials used for decades. These threads come in a multitude of deniers-or thicknesses-so tiers can select the proper size for their specific fly pattern.
Versatility
Fly-tying thread is fairly pliable. It comes in a wide variety of colors, thicknesses, and textures, so the possibilities seem endless: from a delicate dry fly to a large streamer. The most popular brands are UTC, Uni, and Danville, each with their own flavor of different stretches, grip, and color options.
Ease of Use
Regular thread is the forgiving choice for anyone just starting to fly tie. It’s less slippery than GSP, so it’ll hold onto materials better and doesn’t slide off as easily from the hook or onto materials. That makes regular thread a great choice for the just-starting-out fly tier: it’s easier to control and manage.
Strength
While not as strong as GSP, regular threads are suitable for most freshwater fly patterns. For example, a 140-denier nylon thread can easily tie medium to large trout flies. It will also be able to resist the pressures of fishing without breaking.
Key Differences: Veevus GSP vs Regular Thread
To really understand the nature of Veevus GSP thread versus regular thread, it is helpful to separate their key characteristics side by side:
Strength
Veevus GSP: Much stronger than regular threads. A thinner denier of GSP provides more strength and enables tiers to tie tougher flies with fewer thread wraps.
Regular Thread: For most freshwater patterns and general fly tying, regular nylon or polyester threads have adequacy to them, but GSP is stronger.
Diameter
Veevus GSP: it has high strength with an extremely thin diameter that allows precision and dainty tying without added bulk.
Standard Thread: It is available in a variety of diameter options. From very fine for the smallest dry fly patterns to quite thick for larger streamers. It does tend to require more wraps than GSP in order to lock the thread in place with the same kind of security.
Texture and Traction
Veevus GSP: Its slippery texture can be fussy to work with for some tiers, and especially beginners. On the other hand, a slick surface is really good at molding neat, flat bodies.
Common Thread: Gripps materials far better and is far easier to deal with for the less-experienced tiers. A good base that feathers, furs, and other materials can be added from.
Uses
Veevus GSP: GSP is best suited for heavy-duty patterns such as saltwater flies and large streamers or any pattern requiring extra durability. Ideal for delicate fly to ensure minimal bulk.
General Purpose Thread: Useful for flies that imitate nymphs and dry flies up to streamers. It is a good ‘all-around’ thread for general fly tying.
Cost
Veevus GSP: Very pricey because it is made of high-tech material and possesses extreme strength.
General Purpose Thread: Less expensive. Suitable when you do not require the ‘extreme strength’ of GSP.
Which Thread Should You Use?
Thus, the decision between Veevus GSP thread and a regular, normal thread will depend greatly on your experience level and the types of flies you are tying.
For Beginners
If you are just learning to tie flies, a less expensive nylon or polyester thread probably would be a better purchase. It works easily with your hands, hugs material well, and comes in a very wide range of colors and thicknesses. There’s also the cost factor: beginners often use far more thread before they learn to be efficient.
For Experienced Tiers
Other experienced tiers may also wish to use Veevus GSP thread for certain patterns or applications. Its strength and very small diameter make it particularly well-suited for salt water flies, streamers, or any fly that needs a little extra toughness. It does take some practice to handle appropriately because it is slick.
For Specialty Flies
If you are tying large flies for such species like pike, tarpon or bass, GSP is the better choice given its durability. For most standard trout flies, regular thread will do the trick however.
Conclusion: Veevus GSP Thread vs Regular Thread
Generally, the selection between Veevus GSP thread and standard thread depends on what kind of utilization one could intend to make of their particular needs and expertise level. GSP thread provides strength beyond imagination when taken in a thin diameter, for making big, heavy-duty flies or ones where one wants the fly to withstand several fish. However, slickness and cost may not be required for all types of flies and might be a bit hard to handle for one with no experience at all.
This thread, although not as strong, is versatile, affordable, and easier to deal with, so it is usually relied on for most fly-tying applications. Whether tying delicate dry flies or robust nymphs, regular thread is quite durable enough for most freshwater fishing conditions.
Experienced fly tiers will probably still want to carry both types of thread in their box, using the choice of thread to match the pattern up with the needs for strength, appearance, and usability.
FAQs
What is the main advantage of Veevus GSP thread over regular thread?
The main advantage of Veevus GSP thread is its incredible strength-to-diameter ratio, making it extremely strong without adding bulk to the fly.
Is Veevus GSP thread harder to work with than regular thread?
Yes, due to its slick texture, Veevus GSP thread can be harder to control, especially for beginners. However, experienced tiers may find it lays flatter and offers a cleaner finish.
Can regular thread be used for saltwater flies?
While regular thread can be used for saltwater flies, it may not be as durable as GSP thread, which is better suited for the toughness required in saltwater environments.
Why is Veevus GSP thread more expensive?
Veevus GSP thread is made from high-strength gel-spun fibers, which are more expensive to produce than the nylon or polyester used in regular threads.
What denier of Veevus GSP thread is best for general use?
For general use, a 50 or 100 denier Veevus GSP thread offers a good balance of strength and usability, making it suitable for a variety of fly patterns.
