The photo displays past ties for scuds. Some have been successful and some seemed to have no influence at all. I am wondering if the shank style could influence the presentation of the scud. I like Ian James’ scud with the bead positioned at the center of the shank. I am going to tie my next batch of scuds on the center hook with the modified bend in the hook. This may provide a balance between the scud’s resting, feeding and swimming positions (curved and extended). The flies are my efforts over the years sans the pink commercial tie. I can only think the curved/pupa shank that we all find appealing is better suited for a drifting (stream) or static (lake) presentation. Otherwise it seems to lay over or tumble. I am still definitely incorporating the Ian James center bead style.