Tying Time

Trout season is near. Trophy stocking in Volant's Delayed Harvest section of Neshannock Creek area has Lawrence County thinking of flyfishing. Mr. Nych brought in his fly tying gear to go over some of the basics for those who want to get into the hobby of "matching the hatch".

First was a quick introduction of the basics. Bass Pro Shops still sells the vise and material basic package that Mr. Nych has for 70 dollars. The stand is portable and durable. The vise is not the highest quality compared to some other brands and designs, but is high enough quality to handle thick streamers or fine dry fly hooks. The package also comes with enough basics to get started tying immediately.

Other tips for materials:

Craft stores may have some supplies for cheaper than sportsman shops. Clear nail polish from a dollar store is just as good (and doesn't dry up in the jar) as head cement. If you know how to clean your game or livestock well enough, that is another way of saving money on flies and material.

The first example tied was a basic San Juan worm pattern.

Expertise level is minimal. Materials needed simply the thread, hook, and an inch of ultra chenille. Attach thread to hook. Bring close to bend. Attach the chenille with an overhang as seen above. Bring the thread back to near the eye. attach the chenille with overhang as seen above. Finish thread with a knot or whip finish. Tip for finishing, apply the glue to a needle and drag needle across the thread knot.

The hamburger of the fishing world, good for all species, all times, and all weather is the Wooly Bugger.

With practice, the wooly bugger becomes easy to tie. It does require some skill as it requires a maribou tail, a chenille (Medium not Ultra) body, and hackle.

Once again, attach thread to a streamer hook and bring to near the bend in back of shank. Attach maribou tail (1/2 to full length of shank). Attach desired color of chenille and hackle. Bring thread back to near the eye. wrap chenille to thread, tie off, trim. wrap hackle around the chenille toward the thread. Tie off, and trim. Make a small head of thread and finish of with thread knot and finish.

Other patterns shown during presentation were the Glo Bug and Hare's Ear nymph. With these few patterns (I would not go without a Pheasant tail nymph either), I could walk confidently streamside knowing I will have a trout filled day. Also, spending a few dollars on hooks, feathers, and a few other items can end up saving hundreds in the long run. Some of these flies in stores are sold for 2.00 a piece or more. Mr. Nych made deals with friends that if they bought a pack of 25 fly hooks (about $5), he would tie them a dozen of their preferred fly pattern. This would save them money and Mr. Nych would then have hooks to tie his own flies.

Glo Bug egg pattern

Hare's ear nymph

Pheasant tail Nymph