"Over the years I have
labored at my fly-tying labors long after the rest of the house is
asleep, trying to find that one classic fly...Then years ago I
developed and interesting little nymph that may be the answer.
It is made from hairs clipped from my chest and I've had fair
success with it. I shall try a few more of these soon, for
some of the hair is grey now and the new color scheme may make the
difference between mediocrity and brilliance." - Nelson
Bryant Fresh Air, Bright Water
The above excerpt is so true. I
have found myself looking for new materials to create that
"super fly" that will entice any fish that dare get too
close. I have used everything from lint out of my jean pockets
to hair that came directly from my dogs coat!
Fly tying kits are available and
generally come with directions and all the necessary tools needed to
tie your own flies. They come with a vise that holds the hook
in place while you attach materials to it, a bobbin to hold the
thread to help you wind your materials, a bobbin threader, dubbing
needle, a small pair of scissors to trim the material when you
finish, hackle pliers for gripping feathers or hackles that are
added to the fly, head cement to ensure your fly doesn't come
unraveled and a variety of materials such as feathers, fur, hooks,
chenille and other natural and synthetic materials.
With these materials you can tie any
fly you can find in a store at a fraction of the cost. There
are many books
that have excellent details and illustrations to teach you the ways
of fly tying. There is nothing like catching a fish on a fly
but catching a fish on a fly that you tied yourself is even better.
