The Tiemco TMC 202SP is a specialized hook designed for the discerning Salmon and Steelhead fly tyer. Featuring Tiemco’s proprietary “Super Point” (SP) technology, these hooks offer cutting edges for superior penetration. The defining characteristic is the “Graceful Bend,” a continuous curve that mimics classic antique hooks, making it the perfect canvas for Spey and Dee flies. This specific pack dates to the late 1990s/early 2000s Umpqua distribution era and remains a favorite for its strength and aesthetic profile.
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TMC 202SP – Additional Info
1. Identification
- Brand: Tiemco (TMC) / Umpqua Feather Merchants
- Model/Code: 202SP
- Size: 3/0
- Estimated Era: Late 1990s to mid-2000s. The packaging features the “Umpqua Feather Merchants” green and red header card style, which was the standard retail packaging for Tiemco in the US market during this period.
2. Technical Specifications
- Eye: Up-Turned, Tapered Loop Eye
- Wire: Standard to Heavy Salmon wire (Forged for extra strength)
- Shank/Bend: Graceful Bend (Continuous curve/Spey style)
- Point: Super Point (SP) – Tiemco’s proprietary cutting point design
- Finish: Black
3. Historical Context
The TMC 202SP represents a specific era in the evolution of modern Spey hooks.
- The “SP” Innovation: The “SP” stands for “Super Point.” During this era, Tiemco introduced points with cutting edges (similar to a trocar) rather than a simple needle point. This was designed to slice through the tough jaw plates of Steelhead and Atlantic Salmon more effectively than traditional hooks.
- Aesthetic vs. Function: Before hooks like the 202SP, tyers often had to choose between the beautiful, sweeping curves of antique “blind eye” hooks (which were hard to fish) or the functional but blocky shapes of modern hooks. The 202SP attempted to marry the “Graceful Bend” of a classic Victorian hook with modern, chemically sharpened high-carbon steel.
- Current Status: Tiemco is still a dominant manufacturer. While they still produce Spey hooks, the specific “SP” branding has evolved, and the market for this specific curve is now shared with competitors like Daiichi (Alec Jackson) and Ahrex.
4. Usage & Equivalents
- Best Used For:
- Classic Spey Flies: The curved shank perfectly complements the flowing lines of heron or schlappen hackles found in patterns like the Lady Caroline.
- Dee Flies: Large, low-water patterns.
- Steelhead Wet Flies: Traditional hair-wing or feather-wing patterns intended for swinging.
- Modern Equivalent:
- Daiichi 2051 (Alec Jackson Spey): The most direct competitor in terms of shape/bend.
- Ahrex HR410: A modern take on the curved salmon hook.
- Partridge CS10/1: A classic Bartleet style that mimics this curve.
5. Technical Description
The TMC 202SP (Size 3/0) is a forged, black-finished salmon hook featuring a “Super Point” with cutting edges. It utilizes an up-turned Tapered Loop Eye to accommodate heavy leader materials and facilitate traditional knots like the Turle knot. The shank exhibits a “Graceful Bend,” characterized by a continuous, sweeping curve from the eye to the bend, rather than a straight shank with a distinct throat. This geometry is specifically optimized for dressing traditional Spey and Dee flies.
6. Collectability
- Ranking: 5/10
- Reasoning: While not an antique (pre-WWII), these hooks are becoming desirable to niche tyers. The “Umpqua/TMC” green packet era is nostalgic for many anglers. Furthermore, some tyers believe the steel or tempering from this specific era of Tiemco production was superior. However, they are generally bought to be used, not displayed. They are moderately easy to find on eBay or in dusty fly shop bins.