Aside from the obvious benefits of saving money and becoming more involved in the sport, there are several other reasons why you might want to learn how to tie flies. Being able to tie your own flies can also provide you with a sense of accomplishment, especially when you catch a fish with your creation. While tying flies may appear to be a simple process, it is a lifelong learning process, and the helpful tips listed below can assist you in getting started with the fundamentals of fly tying.
Table of Contents
Various Types of Flies
It is critical to become familiar with the different types of flies before you begin tying your own. Due to the fact that they can see the fish take the floating bait, dry flies are often considered enjoyable for fishermen to use. Unlike wet flies, which sink to the bottom of the water, dry flies float on the surface of the water. It is important to learn how to tie both wet and dry flies, even though there are more patterns for dry flies than there are for wet flies.
Knowing how to tie nymphs, according to some fly anglers, is essential if you want to be successful at fly fishing in general. Given that it is estimated that fish found in streams consume up to 95 percent of their food in the form of insects in the nymphal stage, it is easy to see why this is an important type of fly to learn how to tie properly. In addition, there are streamers that are designed to look like smaller bait fish, and knowing how to tie this fly is essential if you want to reel in larger catches.
Hooks
There are several different types of hooks, each designed to be used with a specific type of fly, but they all have an eye, a shank, a bend, a point, and a gap in the eye. The distance between the point of the hook and the shank, which is where the fly is tied on, is referred to as the gap. Depending on how much bend there is in the eye, as well as the angle and shape of the eye, it will determine which flies it will work best with. Hooks are also available in a variety of sizes and weights, and the type of fish you are casting for can often be used to help you choose the most appropriate hook. Despite the fact that it is not necessary to own every type of hook, it is a good idea to have a few different styles on hand so that you can be prepared at all times.
Vise
A vise is a useful tool for tying flies because it holds the hook in place while you work on it. Various types of vises are available, each with a unique set of features that make them particularly useful. It should be noted that the number of features available will have an impact on the price, but it is possible to find a low-cost vise that is still capable of holding a wide range of hooks and other accessories. The jaws of the tool should be positioned at a comfortable angle and be adjustable in order to allow you to work with both small and large hooks with ease. In addition to being an attractive option that can make it easier to tie flies onto smaller hooks, a rotating head vise can also be expensive, with prices ranging from $200 to $400. Additionally, the vise should be able to be secured in place, and most vises are equipped with a supporting stand or clamp.
Tools for tying flies
Additionally, there are some tools that are recommended for those who plan on tying their own flies to make the process go more quickly and smoothly. A bobbin not only holds the thread in place, but it also helps to keep the line taut, allowing you to tie neat, tight flies every time. For cutting threads and wire line, scissors are required, which means you may need to purchase a couple of pairs to get the job done properly. A pair of scissors that is both comfortable to use and sharp enough to make a clean cut is recommended.
Small hackle pliers make it easier to wrap feathers around the hook for specific types of flies, and some of them even rotate so that the material can be completely wrapped around the hook in one motion. Bodkins are also useful tools to have around the house because they can help keep gunk and debris out of the eyes. Hair stackers, hackle guides, and bullet heads are among the other entertaining and useful tools available, but these are typically only required when tying complex flies, such as nymphs.
Summary
It is time to start tying your own flies once you have become familiar with the different types of flies and the materials required. The majority of experts advise taking a few classes or investing in “how to” guides to get started. While trial and error is the most effective method of learning how to tie flies, a quick class or online lesson can get you started on the right foot. Just keep in mind that you don’t have to learn how to tie every fly at once; instead, start with the one that is most appropriate for the species you are targeting.
Check out this video to get a better understanding of the situation.
Three people voted for this, with an average rating of 5.00 out of 5.
Watch this video for a better understanding.
(3 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)