I have been at it for about 5 years now and am pretty much self taught. I have always had a little artistic touch and enjoy the tying. Over the years I have learned quite a bit and am still learning as I go. I try to explore new ideas and tie different flies I see from time to time. I do however, stick with what I know is proven with regards to the fish and find myself going back to a lot of natural colors.
I thought I would throw out a few tips and pointers that I have learned.
- Pay attention to the details! Don’t leave stray thread wraps around dumbell eyes etc…Make all your wraps clean and neat.
- Attach materials in small quantities and layer them…Don’t try to attach too much at one time.
- Pay attention to the head! Fish focus on the head/eyes of their prey and this is often a place many people have problems with when finishing a fly. Back away from the eye of the hook and don’t overbulk the fly/head.
- Epoxy is a PITA but I have learned a new technique to help. Buy the expoy in the large bottles as the tips dont clog and the mixing is easy. But the sponge brushes and cut up for epoxy application to the bodies of a fly.
- When experimenting with something new, build up a prototype and drop it in the sink to see how it sinks or floats.
- Once again, pay attention to the details, take your time, and keep your flies neat! If you have problem slowing down enough to do this, maybe you ought to buy 'em!
