Chris_in_Louisiana wrote:
This is partially due to the strength of the relatively small hooks, but also due to the fact the matte black finish doesn't flash in anyway that could be perceived as unnatural by the carp.
Chris
Same applies to suckers in a lot of waters. Give me an overcast day, (very) light breezes, and an intermittent drizzle and I’ll thank the weather for a huge advantage in pursuing these fish.
Everyone gushes over shiny & flashy and while it has it’s place, drab and more natural looking materials are hard to find but can be highly effective. Chamois has the “soft look” qualities, some types of natural dubbings do (especially the underfurs), wool does…kinda.
The hook shine is tough to get around, though. Sometimes I dub or wing long and shaggy to obscure or shadow it a bit. Doesn’t seem many anglers notice it, but on a sunny day it can be glaring on touched-up or resharpened hooks. The difference in dark red hooks once the finish wears off a bit is like night and day in some brands. Bare metal bling-bling does seem off-putting to the softer lipped quarry at times.