The normal evolution a fly fisher usually includes fly tying sometime along the line. Some take up fly tying to cut the costs of all the flies they seem to leave in bushes and trees everywhere they go. Others want to try it to increase their involvement in the finer details of the sport. No matter what your reasons are, tying flies seems to be an integratal part of the whole fly fishing picture.

The fly tier needs a piece of equipment called a vise. The vise holds the hook securely during construction of the fly. The base of the vise must be heavy enough not to tip or scoot around while in use, or have a clamp to anchor it to the table or workbench. There are two basic types of vises: standard or rotary. Standard vises hold the hook in a fixed position. Rotary vises are able to spin so that the hook can be presented in different positions without removing it from the jaws of the vise. Small, very sharp scissors, bobbin and threader, hackle pliers, a dubbing needle (also called a bodkin), a dubbing hook (or spin-loop tool), a hair stacker, and a whip-finish tool complete the list of necessary equipment.

Having begun by learning about fly tying in a general way and obtaining the necessary equipment, the angler must decide on a specific fly pattern to create. Here is where the personal preferences and experiences of the individual come into play. Fly fishers who treasure memories of languid summer afternoons made unforgettable by hours of catching bream on a 5-weight rod and poppers will want to learn to make a supply of these little cork gems. Others may want to create deer hair bass bugs, or perhaps hoppers or blue wing olives to fill their fly boxes. Whatever the desired pattern, different materials and methods will be necessary to make it. Purchasing the materials for just one or two fly patterns at a time also help minimize expense and focus the learning process.