So you’re thinking about getting into fly tying! You’ve done some research, checked out some YouTube channels (hopefully MINE), and even talked to a friend. But you have that one burning question: Is fly tying worth it?!? Trust me, you’re not alone, so let’s find out if tying flies is right for you.
I’ve been tying for over 30 years and feel very strongly about this one, except let’s separate it into two parts:
Fly tying allows for lots of creativity, as evidenced in this fly. When I noticed many fly tiers and fishers were using patterns with a hot spot in the thorax, I simply changed the position to the rear! Cammisa’s Stealth Mode was created, learn more about this pattern: HERE
Can you save money tying flies?
Is fly tying worth it?
Starting with number one: Can you save money? The short answer to me is it's going to be very doubtful because you have an initial upfront investment. We're talking about the vise, bobbins, scissors, bodkin and all of your other tying tools. There is so much stuff, especially if you let it get out of hand…full disclosure, I have!
Then we have to include materials, hooks, accessories around your bench. And let’s be honest, every time you go into a fly shop and they have a new material, can you really say no?? Can you save money in the long run? Hmm, it's going to be really tough unless you're VERY disciplined and VERY intentional with your decisions.
During one of my hosted trips to Iceland, I was in a spot that had brown trout like this eating ALL OVER the place. The guide had a pattern for me to try, but I really wanted to catch one on my own fly. You’re looking at the result, and knowing I was able to convince this fish to take my fly over the naturals was such an incredible feeling.
Next question: Is it worth it? In my mind it is, in fact I’m going to give you three reasons why I think fly tying is 100% absolutely worth it and you should get into it if you haven't already done so.
Fooling a fish on YOUR fly - This should be an obvious one, fly tying is all about tying patterns to fool fish. Think back to a tough day where there was a smart fish that was eating away and you had no idea what the trout was taking. You opened your box and picked through fly after fly after fly. But you decide on one that YOU tied and the fish ate…PERFECT! That’s what this is all about, knowing that you have a rising fish that's been eating natural insects, but for some reason it chose your imitation over that natural. That is the best feeling in the world and should be the reason why you're getting into fly tying.
As a fly tier, I carry a small tying kit when I am fly fishing. This picture was taken after a morning session fishing and I tied flies that later caught the nicest fish of the day. Even if you’re in an area with a fly shop, tying gives you a unique advantage to tie flies to look exactly how YOU want them to.
You can imitate what you see - You’re in a very unique position on the water to observe insects and bait fish; then when you return back home to your vise, you can imitate them. That is truly special and gives you a unique advantage when it comes to imitating exactly what the fish are eating on the waters you fish. In fact, there are times when I'm traveling and bring a fly tying kit so when I'm on the water and need a specific fly, I can go back to my truck, whip out that kit, and tie a fly right there and go back and catch a fish on it.
Let's pretend there's a fly shop that's really close to the water, can you go and buy another imitation of something that you're attempting to replicate? For sure, but the key with being able to tie your own flies is that you can make them look exactly like you want, not how that fly shop has already dictated. Want an exact replica? Go for it! Prefer a general searching pattern? Coming right up! It’s YOUR choice how crazy or natural the fly looks, and there is only the fish to judge. More importantly, what I truly love about fly tying is that I can make my patterns look different than YOURS!
Fly tying connects you to others - I used to think about fly tying as this lonely exercise of a hobby, like playing the card game Solitaire. It’s not. To learn how to tie flies, you can be self-taught, but it’s much easier connecting with others, especially via social media today. Whereas YouTube used to be my “go-to” for fly tying, the list now includes Instagram, TikTok and especially Facebook. For the latter, Facebook Groups may be one of my favorite ways to share and connect with others, as there are TONS of fly tying groups out there.
A great resource that I wrote to help tie flies is “Fly Tying for Everyone.” In it, I break down essential tying tools and
Another excellent place to learn and connect is a local fly shop. Give them a call to check on tying classes, plus they are aware of local clubs and can point you in the right direction. Unable to find anything local? I have a great resource for you called “Fly Tying for Everyone.” This is my most recent book on fly tying, and learn as I go through a baker’s dozen of flies that will both improve your tying and help you catch more fish.
In fly tying, is there a steep learning curve? Yes! Does it take a lot of time to learn? Yes! Is there an initial investment? Yes? Is it frustrating? Absolutely! I've been tying for over 30 years and still get frustrated! That's the gist of learning anything new, so stop whatever you're doing and go out and learn how to tie flies .
Is fly tying worth it? By this point, you already know my answer. Now it’s your turn, especially if you already tie flies and love it as much as me. Go below in the comments section and tell everybody what makes you enjoy fly tying so much.
If you're still having problems getting started, shoot me an email: tcammisa@gmail.com I am happy to help you get begin tying and catching fish on those flies.
Rather watch this in video form? Here you go!