When using tube flies take along a bobbin threader to assist in getting
tippet thru the tube. Also, the best knot I have found for the hook is the
Palomar Knot, it gives it a bit bulk and the hook holds better in the
keeper. Also, I have found, with experience, that less is more on the
dressing. At first, I tied them with LOTS of stuff. I go a bit sparse and
I have seen better results (easier to cast as well). Oh yeah, fish the fly
with the hook up and reduce hangups.

Chris

PS I caught and released 16 shad today (I had suprisingly few long distance
releases today, I credit the offset octopus hook) using this tube fly
pattern tied with red over white wings on an 8 weight and a fast sinking tip
line. One guy, near me, caught about the same maybe a few more on spinning
gear; so I felt pretty good. He tried to get me to give him my Shad instead
of releasing them. "Them damn good Sturgeon bait!"