Instructions for Trout Fly Tying

Fly tying entails taking a fishing hook and tying twine, wire of a variety of colors and sometime even feathers to mimic a fly that would land on the water to make a trout strike it. These flies have become as much a hobby as fishing itself, as the best fly tying often yields the best fly fishing results. There are a huge variety of different flies that can be tied which are known to draw trout to strike. But the skill of fishing is picking the right fly from week to week or even day to day.

  1. Securing the Hook

    • Most fly fishing hooks are very small, known better as nymph hooks, so they are light and easy to disguise within the materials used to tie the flies themselves. The hook should be secured in a small vice with the point end facing down so the long metal shaft of the hook can be worked on. Most flies have a thread base, which matches the color of whatever type of fly you are tying. This base should then usually be wrapped with wire and secured with thread so the fly's body can be built upon.

    Materials Used on Flies

    • There are a wide variety of materials used to tie flies, which give each of fly its individual, unique look. These flies are modeled after actual flies that are in the natural environment where trout feed. These fly's materials range from bright-colored pieces of wire and string, to feathers that are supposed to look like the frayed wings of an insect struggling on the stream's surface. Other kinds of flies are a muted color, as that is what trout will sometimes feed upon.

    Tie and Securing Materials

    • Most pieces of wire and string should simply be wrapped around the shaft of the hook, creating the faux body of the fly. If feathers are going to be added to the fly they should be wrapped under the wire or twine, sticking out of the sides or the back at the proper length, but not to far so they are not torn out when they are cast or a fish strikes. A few drops of waterproof glue should be added to the entire fly and spread evenly over it after it has been tied, to ensure everything is locked in place and doesn't come unwound easily.