Classic Fly Tying
![]() Tying the Classic Salmon Fly A Modern Approach to Trad US $48.47
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![]() CLASSIC ANTRON DUBBING BASIC 10 Pack Set 10 colors Fly Tying Lot US $21.99
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Can you recommend a good fly tying book?
I have been tying flies for a short time and I would like a good reference on tying flies. I do NOT need a "beginner's" book and I do not necessarily want the newest book or the one with the most patterns. What I'd like is a solid, well-known reference written by a well-known fly tier that includes a lot of "classic" patterns with basic tying/material instructions, and then maybe some bit of background and/or fishing instructions for each fly. I am considering Ted Leeson's "Benchside Reference," but I've looked through it seems to be only techniques -- no actual pattern instructions. Older books are fine, as long as there is some form of photos or illustrations. Thanks!
The Orvis Pattern Indexes are hard to beat. And you're right in that the Benchside Reference is more for technique than pattern. I consider it a "must have" but it is one that I recommend adding only after you've mastered some basic patterns and basic techniques.
Dave Hughes' "Essential Trout Flies" is also excellent. And if you're wanting to spend a few more bucks, his "Trout Flies" is all you'll ever need. BIG book, and about $50, but loaded with excellent info.
No, I'm not Dave Hughes
and there are many other books out there which are just as good (maybe better). I've been tying for 30 years, and the book I use most often is the Orvis Pattern Index (several volumes, which can be hard to find but usually show up on eBay fairly often). Of the books readily available, those two by Hughes are hard to beat if trout is your target.
For an online reference, http://www.flyanglersonline.com/ and look in the Fly Tying Section for the lessons by Al Campbell (a great fisherman, EXCELLENT tier, and even better man). That little series is excellent, and there is a plethora of patterns there as well with good to excellent instructions and technique for fishing them once you've tied them.
Al Campbell was a true fly fisherman who shared all he knew with anyone who asked. He taught (literally) hundreds of thousands to tie flies, and I think about him every time I tie a fly on a leader. His series is worth a look, no matter how long you've been tying.
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