THE HISTORICAL "VICTORY FLY"
When America declared war on Japan, Art Winnie responded with his symbol of patriotism ? the 'Victory Fly', first created in late 1941, and shortly thereafter debuted in the Grand Rapids Press on February 7, 1942.
Art who was taught fly tying by his brother Bert, owned a barber shop in Traverse City, Michigan. He became one of Michigan's famous tyers of early Michigan fly patterns, while Bert pursued his career as a renowned creator of fishing decoys. Both Art and Bert had well established reputations in their respective careers among fishermen.