Carp have moved to deeper water?

[thorn99]

I'd guess that's why he recommended the foam corn fly - to be able to float a stout enough hook without being massive

Exactly. One thing I forgot to mention is that even with emerger or scud hooks, I use heavy-wire hooks with virtually no flex. I'd rather have a hook snap than straighten out during a fight. I specifically look for hooks that are very strong and resistant to bending. They're not always easy to find at a typical fly shop.