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Flyfishing flies

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Are you thinking of making your own flyfishing flies? Tying flies is a hobby all on its own, separate from the sport of fly fishing itself. Of course, quite obviously, making flyfishing flies and using them go hand in hand.

The question is, should you make your own fly fishing flies rather than buy them? Here are some reasons for tying your own flies:

It gives you something to do during the off season.
You can create flyfishing flies that are very specific to the area you plan to fish at.
It is a great hobby, especially if you enjoy working with your hands.
There are few things more satisfying than catching a fish on a flyfishing fly that you made yourself.
In the long run, you can save money (of course, this certainly not the best or main reason for tying your own flies.

When you first start out tying flies, it can be a little bit expensive since you will have to buy the necessary tools. Of course, once you have the tools, you do not need to replace them often!

Here are some of the tools that you need to start making your own flyfishing flies:

Vice (this will hold the hook as you tie the fly). Before you spend a ton of money on a vice, look at less expensive models. As long as the teeth of the vice will hold your hook sturdy, then the vice is just fine!
Scissors. Look for a small pair that is very sharp and strong. Be sure that it has a fine tip. If possible, buy a pair that is made especially for fly tying. Such scissors will make the tying process much easier.
Bobbin. The bobbin holds the floss or thread, etc. (the material used to wrap everything around your hook).
Bodkin. One of these tools is great for picking out the dubbing on fly bodies. They can be used in other ways, as well.
Whip finisher. This tool is used for tying a whip-finish knot (the way that most flies are completed).
Hackle pliers. These are used to grip small hackle feathers so that you can wrap them around the hook.
Hair stacker. This is used if you are using deer or elk hair on your fly.
Dubbing comb. It is use for dubbing fur.

Perhaps the most important tools for tying your own flyfishing flies are the top three. AS you get more into this wonderful hobby, you can upgrade certain tools and add other tools.