For three seasons Aroostook outdoorsmen, winter is a terribly confining time. Ice fishing along with rabbit and varmint hunting offer the only regional rod and gun options, and even if the weather cooperates, sportsmen can only stand so much of these. Indoor hobbies linked to favorite outdoor activities help many outdoor enthusiasts overcome cabin fever. One of the most popular pastimes to pass long winter evenings is fly tying.
Young and old alike can learn to tie flies, and the appearance and effectiveness of each feathered wonder will be directly proportional to the time and effort invested. While still in elementary school my first tying efforts yielded conglomerations of feathers, fur, and floss that were more startling than beautiful. My first attempt at a grasshopper pattern ended up looking like a moth that had a bad experience with a bug zapper!
My Dad inspected my creation that evening and offered a bit of insight that remains true to this day. He explained that as grizzled as my fly might seem, compared to the many repulsive baits trout gulp down my fly could easily be part of the normal food chain. The very next evening it was. Dad’s theory was proven on a nearby brook by four trout that may have been starving, near blind or just plain confused by the new delicacy they devoured. I’m still tying flies, although they are far more realistic, and still catching fish on them all this many years later.
Regardless of age, questionable coordination or reduced vision anyone with interest and desire can learn to tie flies. Some folks will become proficient enough to sell their feather and fur creations to other anglers and even retail outlets. A few learn so well that their flies win awards at local, regional or national competitions. With a bit of practice most everyone can use their finished insect replicas to actually catch fish, and keep their fly boxes and those of fishing family and friends supplied.
Beyond the business and competition aspects, and a hobby to stave off winter doldrums, personal incentives tend to be more compelling reasons to learn a new skill. The enjoyment of outsmarting a trophy fish into striking a fake insect is increased a hundredfold when the angler actually constructed the fly, or better still, created the successful pattern.
Rare is the fly tying fisherman who doesn’t daydream about building a fly that catches fish anytime, anywhere. Perhaps you’re the next Carrie Stevens, Lee Wulff or Stu Apt and will join them and their world famous patterns in the tiers hall of fame. Barring fame, relaxation and helping pass long winter nights, there are other reasons to tie flies.
Sportsmen can save a fair amount of money tying their own flies rather than buying them. If you need a specific pattern or size, the store may not have it in stock, but you can sit at the bench and make exactly what you need in a few minutes. Also, personally-tied flies tend to withstand more abuse than bulk manufactured models of questionable quality. Beyond trout and salmon patterns, flies for bass and saltwater species, or flies for Alaska or other exotic trips may be tied since they are seldom available locally.
Without a doubt, learning this new pastime is best accomplished with a friend or family member as a tutor. A second option is a local fly tying class at the area fish and game club or adult ed program at the high school. There are also literally thousands of books available on every aspect and skill level of fly tying, check the library. In this high tech age of DVDs and computers, there are even step-by-step videos and internet programs available to coach novice tiers to their goal. Everyone can learn.
Most area sporting goods stores carry a fair supply of fly tying materials and prices are reasonable. Ben’s Trading Post in Presque Isle actually increased their selection of hooks, feathers, fur, and other materials this year. Most outdoor stores carry one or two versions of beginners fly tying kits, these reasonably priced starter boxes hold all the materials and hardware to tie basic patterns with the included instructions.
Fair warning, however, beginners who get hooked on the pastime and become proficient at basic dry flies, streamers and wet flies want more. A box of basic material soon turns into a desk full of more exotic feathers, fur, hair, and synthetic material and the hobby becomes a habit. Even then the self-satisfaction, contentment, and relaxation remains and winter passes more quickly — time flies when you tie flies.
