Introduction to Fly Tying

Introduction to Flytying

<p>While you can go to any tackle store in California and buy ready-made flies,<br/>there is nothing that comes close to pulling a trophy trout out of a California<br/>stream or lake on a fly that you tied yourself. Fly tying is a great add-on to<br/>the sport of California trout fishing.</p><p>If you are thinking about doing your own fly tying you're going to need some<br/>specialized equipment. You might consider finding another California fly<br/>fisherman who will let you try your hand out on their equipment before you make<br/>an investment in your own fly tying tools. That way you can make sure that<br/>your interest is high without risking any cash.</p><p><strong>Required Fly Tying Gear</strong></p><p><em>Fly Tying Vice</em></p><p>This is your #1 tool . Vices come in different sizes so make sure that the one<br/>you select will accommodate the hook sizes that you use regularly. Vises are<br/>also available in two different styles. The C-Clamp style uses a clamp to mount<br/>itself to the side or end of your table or workbench. These work best for tying<br/>big flies. The other style is called the pedestal vise. This vise has a shaft<br/>which slides down into a weighted base. The base rests upon your work surface<br/>but it is not attached. These work better with lighter flies. Prices range from<br/>$29.95 to over $500. </p><p><em>Bobbin</em></p><p>The bobbin holds the thread that is used in fly tying. It allows you to direct<br/>the thread easily onto the hook and it holds the thread in place so you can<br/>free up both hands to do the tying. A good beginner's bobbin comes with a 2&quot;<br/>tube and a ceramic tip which keeps your thread from becoming frayed. Bobbins<br/>run anywhere from around $5.00 to around $20.00</p><p><em>Hackle Pliers</em></p><p>These are small specialized pliers which are used for winding hackle feathers<br/>onto a fly tying pattern. Prices range from about $2.00 up to about $10.00.</p><p><em>Bodkin</em></p><p>The bodkin, also called the dubbing needle, is a multi-purpose fly tying tool<br/>which you can use for anything from to teasing out the dubbing (synthetic<br/>hair). Most people keep a few on hand. Prices run from around $1.00 to around<br/>$5.00.</p><p><em>Scissors</em></p><p>Fly tying requires a good pair of scissors. Look for ones with comfortable<br/>finger holes since you'll be using them a lot. Shorter blades and fine points<br/>are preferred. Buy the best pair that you can afford. Prices run from around<br/>$5.00 to around $40.00.</p><p><em>Head Cement</em></p><p>Head cement is the adhesive that is used in fly tying. Cement comes in<br/>different thicknesses. Thin and medium thicknesses are good for small flies and<br/>thick is better for large. Prices run around $3.00.</p><p><em>Thread</em></p><p>Fly tying is all about thread and you have a wide choice. Sizes range from 1/0<br/>(thickest) to 8/0 (finest). Beginners are better off using 3/0 and 6/0 because<br/>they are easier to work with.&nbsp; Black, white, brown and olive are the most<br/>common colors. Prices range from around $1.00 to $5.00 and higher for silks.</p><p><em>Hooks</em></p><p>No matter how good you are at fly tying, your fly is only as good as the hook<br/>that goes with it. Once you decide upon the type of fly and the pattern you can<br/>choose your hooks. Hooks that are suitable for beginners range from around<br/>$6.00 per box of 50 up to $20.00.<br/>box of 50 hooks.</p><p>That's about all you need to get started fly tying. Now you can pick up a book<br/>that shows you how to use all of those tools or you can find someone to teach<br/>you. Be careful though! Once you get &quot;hooked&quot; on tying flies, there's no turning<br/>back!<br/>&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>For more information on fly fishing or fly tying, please visit <a href="http://www.hookupsportfishing.com">http://www.hookupsportfishing.com</a></p>

[Eric]

This is a good start. another thing wil be materials.
1. dubbing material( best to get the 12 packs in hares ear and one 12 pack for
dry flys.
2.maribu(sp) in various colors, black, olive, green and brown.
3.chenille in med. and small sizes. black, olive, green and brown.
4. hackle
hook size packs come in 25's. u will need streamer hooks, dry fly hooks and
nymph hooks in the proper sizes.
Your best bet is to get a mentor and share supplies. That is what i did and it saved me alot of money and pain. For the guys who r thinking about taking the plunge welcome to the world of fly tying.. u will really enjoy it!!!!
Eric