Creating Shanks for Articulated Flies/GameChanger

This is a brief video of creating shanks for articulated flies such as a GameChanger. The wire used is Malin Hardwire #12 - 180lb Test. Tools are needle-nose pliers, 1.5mm one step looper tool, and a 2.25mm one step looper tool. These items can be purchased via Amazon or Ebay.

[rockfly]

Great video mate, watched it, then bought all the gear, now I am making my own game changers!!!

[CurtisLloyd-tj]

I recently purchased about 8000 dry fly and nymphs from China. The whole lot was about $40. I have been clipping and sacrificing some of the hooks to make these shanks. The beauty of it is the eye of the hook is already made on one side of the shank. I am able to make micro shanks quickly and easily. I have been experimenting with different articulated streamers. Making my own shanks saves money and I can build multiple segments at a time and build up a streamer as needed. I have mixed and matched color segments of material depending on the water conditions of where I am fishing. Awesome video! Good tips! Tight lines all!

[josephbroadus]

Lol been doing this for a while in jewery making for links for beads. Without the need for special tools . Tapered nose pliers and flat nose pliers make a perfect lollipop end everytime with a bit of practice. Flush cutting nippers and wire rounding tool finishes off the wire for no sharp ends to cut thread. Tool avaible at craft stores for a few bucks.

[fun]

The original shank has a triangle on one end. Those swim much different. If you do respond to this theres a few ways of getting the bend right. Id like to see em.

[michaelzsizseri]

Where can you purchase the looping tools awesome video

[Nubenhoofer]

I love making my own shanks with this tool. I also use orthodontic pliers that were made for making braces.

I'm hoping that someone will figure out how to make the next gen shanks with the triangular loops soon...

[dustinhinds]

Good tutorial, I am using the same method. I get a little more systematic and OCD with measuring and sorting though. I cut 50-60 pieces all the same length then bend and sort into individual tackle trays labeled by 10mm, 15mm, 20mm, etc.
Thanks for sharing

[toncremers]

Mnay thanks for sharing this information.

[briancusters]

what size wire would you use for the 1.5mm one step looper. I want to try and make 6mm and 8mm shanks

[JeremY]

If I am only using the 1.5 mm tool do you recommend the same size wire? Or should I down grade just a bit.

[hernanpaponi]

Great tutorial. Which size would you recommend if you have to choose just one for doing game changer patterns relatively small for trout fishing. Thanks

[callakukillerindenver]

Thanks for video Ryan. Have you had any problems with the 1-step looper bending the MALIN .029" Hard Leader Wire? Like failing to bend MALIN wire properly or breaking the 1-step looper itself tyring to bend that type of wire?

[callakukillerindenver]

Hi Ryan,
A simple question, is the 1.5mm 1-step looper tool slightly smaller than the 2.25mm tool and is the head not quite s beefy either?