Quote Originally Posted by BlueDun
Wow! Thanks everyone for your responses! Now I have to figure out what to try first!

When I started fly fishing 1-1/2 years ago, I didn't understand the appeal to tying one's own flies when you can buy them in a store and spend more of your spare time fly-fishing. Now I understand part of the appeal - you can be creative and tie flies based on what you find most useful when fishing.

Your responses are really helpful. I was hoping to try some over the weekend, but didn't have time. Hopefully, will get to try some next weekend.
In Good Flies, John Gierach explains how he ties his deer hair streamer patterns upside down. As a pattern book, to my mind, Good Flies doesn't get the credit it deserves.