Nano Silk Ultra 30D (18/0)
Nano Silk Ultra 30D (18/0) is widely regarded as the professional fly tyer’s thread of choice and one of the finest GSP (Gel Spun Polyethylene) threads available. Renowned for its exceptional strength-to-diameter ratio, it offers unmatched performance for everything from the smallest micro flies to larger, demanding patterns.
At 30 denier (18/0), this is the finest thread in the Nano Silk range, making it ideal for size 16 down to size 32 hooks where minimal bulk and absolute control are critical. Despite its ultra-fine diameter, Nano Silk Ultra delivers extraordinary strength - stronger than 8/0 polyester thread while being less than one-twentieth of the diameter.
Nano Silk Ultra lays perfectly flat on the hook, eliminating unwanted thread build-up, even with multiple wraps. In fact, extensive testing shows that even after 100 wraps, head build-up remains virtually non-existent. The thread can also be split further if required, making dubbing loops exceptionally easy to form.
Manufactured using the highest quality GSP materials, Nano Silk Ultra offers smooth handling, consistent performance, and superb reliability. Available in a wide colour range, the 30D (18/0) size provides the broadest colour selection within the Nano Silk lineup.
Key Features
18/0 (30 denier) GSP thread
Breaking strain: 1,140g / 2.51lb
Suitable for hook sizes 16–32
Lays perfectly flat with zero thread build-up
10× stronger than steel of the same diameter
Stronger than 8/0 polyester, yet dramatically finer
Ideal when you do not want visible thread
Pro Tips
Rotate the bobbin anti-clockwise to untwist the thread and ensure it lays perfectly flat. Just 2–3 light wraps over foam can be tightened securely without cutting delicate materials.
Use white Nano Silk and colour the final 100mm (4") for highly visible heads.
Additional Information
Available in black and white (100m spools) and coloured versions (50m spools)
Independent strength testing confirms Nano Silk’s performance (see Global Fly Fisher thread charts)
Always use a ceramic bobbin holder when tying with GSP threads to prevent damage
