Fly Tying

Fly tying can feel intimidating when you first start out, especially when you move into more detailed patterns. Their design separates the hook from the body, which extends the life of each fly and allows for quick adjustments on the water. In today’s article, we’re drawing on April Vokey’s expertise to walk through a step-by-step guide to tying a basic tube fly.
Diane Michelin is a Canadian watercolour artist whose work is deeply rooted in the spirit and subtleties of fly fishing. Born in Montreal, she now lives on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Diane draws inspiration from the landscape, water, wildlife, flies, rods and reels, and the human moments that make up the fly-fishing experience. Over her career, she has built a global presence, with her work housed in private collections, fishing lodges, and museums around the world.
Some days, no matter what you throw, the fish just won’t bite. That’s when having a versatile, lifelike baitfish pattern can turn your day around. The Code Breaker is designed for those exact moments. It’s an imitation that looks natural in the water, carries just the right amount of flash, and holds up to hours of casting.
James Christmas is an accomplished fishing guide whose career has taken him from the remote flats of the Seychelles to destinations across the globe. Alongside his guiding, he has designed influential flies such as the NYAP (Not Your Average Popper), patterns now used by anglers worldwide.
Brian Silvey is a legendary Oregon guide and fly designer who has spent more than thirty years on the Deschutes, Sandy, and Clackamas Rivers. Known for his innovative patterns, he’s guided generations of anglers while sharing a lifetime of knowledge about the rivers, fish, and techniques that define Northwest fly fishing. In this episode of Anchored, he joins me to do just that.
When it comes to fishing flies that truly perform, the NearNuff Crayfish stands out as one of the most versatile and effective patterns you can learn. Originally designed by the late Dave Whitlock, this pattern has been carried forward by fly tying expert Allen Rupp.
In this post, we’re diving into Jeff’s practical, no-fuss way to choose flies that get results, especially when targeting bass in lakes, rivers, and large impoundments.
Allen Rupp is a seasoned fly tier with over 35 years of experience, renowned for his precision and dedication to the craft. As the founder of Fly On The Water, he offers high-quality, hand-tied flies and imparts his knowledge through instructional classes. Significantly, Allen was mentored by the legendary Dave Whitlock, who personally taught him to tie patterns like the NearNuff Crayfish and Sculpin.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about tying the Near-Nuff Sculpin, from hook selection and materials to key techniques to get the perfect shape and movement.
You’re standing at the edge of a trout stream, gear in hand, but which nymph do you choose? The answer could mean the difference between a banner day or going home empty-handed...
In classic fly tying, the materials you choose can make or break your patterns. Quality hooks, feathers, threads, and dubbing aren’t just about aesthetics; they directly affect the durability and functionality of your flies.
Mayfly nymphs are a favorite meal for trout during their ascent to the surface, making them an essential pattern in any angler’s box. In this guide, we’ll draw from the expertise of Clint Goyette, a seasoned fly fishing professional, as he walks you through tying this must-have fly step by step.