Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

A fishing fly is designed to imitate the different life stages of insects. When presented with a fly fishing outfit, they entice a fresh or saltwater game fish to strike. By assembling a variety of materials, you can create an insect imitation. Dry, wet, streamer and nymph flies -- all are tied using the same basic steps. With some practice, you can quickly be tying flies to add to your angling arsenal.

Things You'll Need

  • Fly tying vise
  • Fly hook
  • Thread
  • Bobbin
  • Feathers
  • Animal hairs
  • Yarn
  • Head cement
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clamp a fly hook in the jaws of a fly tying vise. Place the bend of the hook securely between the jaws of the vise with the hook shank on top and the point on the bottom.

    • 2

      Insert a bobbin of thread in the color of choice between in a thread bobbin. Feed the thread through the guide tube on the front of the bobbin and pull 2 to 3 inches of thread from the end of the guide tube.

    • 3

      Wrap thread around the shank of the hook. Begin just below the eye of the hook and wrap down to the bend. Wrap the thread back up to the eye. Repeat as necessary based on the specific fly pattern you are tying.

    • 4

      Select feathers or animal hairs based on the fly pattern. Place the feathers or hairs on the thread wound onto the hook. Secure the feathers or hairs in place with wraps of thread.

    • 5

      Add additional layers of feathers, animal hairs or yarn to form a body for the fly. Secure the fly-tying materials in place with wraps of thread. Consider the use of various materials such as feather hackles, for example, to create insect legs or wings to add a realistic touch.

    • 6

      Finish the fly with turns of thread just below the hook eye and form a head for the insect imitation.

    • 7

      Apply a coat of head cement to seal the threads and help reduce abrasion on the threads when fished.