Tools make fly Tying easier. Modern fly tying has dramatically improved fly tying. Back in the day, we used what we had. Mouse trap bobbins, clothes pin vices, Bic pens for tying knots, and whatever we could steal from Grandmas sewing kit.
Thanks to the expanding fishing market, avid fly tyers can start off with the best tools on the market. They can also pull up a YouTube video and watch/rewind tying videos. These instructional videos are wonderful ways to streamline your tying education. If you plan to start being an excellent tyer, here are 5 must have tools in your kit!
Before you get tools and materials, figure out how you plan to organize them. It may be an old tackle box, Tupperware tub, or a cabinet/drawer that you may have. Once you have a way to organize, you can begin to accumulate tying materials and tools. Remember that many natural feathers, necks, tails, and feathers also attract insects/bugs. You will need to keep them in sealed containers.
5 BEST TOOLS
- GREAT SCISSORS Don’t get cheapo when buying scissors. I suggest a pair that will fit your thumb and finger, so you can wear them while you tie. Never take the scissors off, to save time when tying. You also never want to cut wire with extra sharp scissors. If you need to trim wire, use the inside crotch of the scissors, never the ends.
- NEEDLE PROBE Have a pointed, long needle to adjust material =s on the hook, apply lacquer, or head cement, open eyes of hooks. This is an all-purpose tool. I have also seen tiers apply small beads onto hooks using a needle probe.
- KNOT TYING TOOL You can learn to tie fly knots without a tool, by just using your fingers. It’s way easier and more accurate to use a knot tool. These tools come in different sizes appropriate for different sized hook eyes. You can also use a Whip Finisher, which makes a secure knot, but can be tricky to use. Watch a YouTube video to learn how.
- SECURE VISE If the vise slips when tying a fly, you need a better vise. This is one tying tool that you should not go cheap on. The cheapest, but most functional vise is a Thompson A vise. It has been around for decades and works well. If you want an upgrade, go with a rotary style vise such as the Renzetti series.
- SPRING BOBBINS Modern spring bobbins are made from heavy spring steel. They hold the thread spool securely in place. These are light and the probe that guides the thread is perfect for close tying. Some have a ceramic tip that prevents the thread from wearing a groove into the tip. This easily happens when using Kevlar or heavy threads. Preset bobbins for wires, floss, and threads.
Tying one on is easier now than ever. These tools make tying faster and more fun.
Montana Grant
