Fly Tying - 10 Things You Need to Know

Whilst you might be keen to purchase as many different sorts of flies as you can, to see what works for the sort of fish you're looking to catch, another way is to create your own bait, by fly tying.

Here's what you need to know to get started.

1. A poorly tied know can mean that you lose the fish, and it's much easier to make sure that the knot is secure in the warmth and comfort of your own home, rather than whilst in the water on a cold day.

2. If you lubricate the knot you'll find that it slides into position easier, and is much more likely to stay firm.

3. By sealing the knot with a long pull you'll make sure that it doesn't come undone. Again, it's easier to do this as you tie the flies rather than when you are trying to land a fish.

4. You can finish the knot off by carefully snipping away the ends, this will make it look neat, and more authentic, and so more tempting to the fish you're trying to catch.

5. Like with most fishing accessories, you don't have to spend a fortune on dedicated fly tying accessories to get good results. Some of the cheapest and most basic flies can be as just as effective as more elaborate and expensive flies.

6. Many household accessories and things that you would normally throw away can be used to create flies. Why not save some bright, sparkly reflective or colourful things that you might not normally expect to use, and see if you can turn them into flies?

7. Unusual but effective materials used in fly tying include dog hair, feathers, or the foam used in packaging. Beads can also be used as well, and can be very effective.

8. If you think ahead, and have a fly box of scraps that you can use for tying flies, you can save a lot of money, and give yourself something productive to do when you're not fishing.

9. You can find out which are the most effective of the flies you have tied using trial and error. Perhaps some fish will be attracted to one sort of fly, or one colour much more than others. If you find an effective combination, you might even be able to convince your friends to try it.

10. When you're fly tying, you can be as creative as you like, and the only limit is your imagination. There are no real rules, and if you know the sort of colours or sizes that work well where you usually fish, then why not make your own, and see how you get on?

If you're looking to save money on flies, and catch more fish, why not start fly tying for yourself?

For a wide range of Fly Tying accessories and other Fishing Tackle, why not visit JohnNorris.co.uk? You'll find all you need for fishing, and for spending time in the great outdoors.