In fly tying we use a tool call the "Bodkin." The "Bodkin"
has a needle-point at one end, the handle at the other end. The
handle has two purposes; as a hair packer, and as a half-hitch
tool. Many people tie their Half-Hitches using the "Bodkin"
improperly. The think they are doing a Half-Hitch, while they
are actually are just doing two Quarter-Hitches. While a
Half-Hitch is comprised of two Quarter-Hitches, there is a BIG
difference.
The "Half-Hitch Rule," as any Boy Scout will tell you, is comprised
of two Quarter-Hitches. But the second Quarter-Hitch is reversed
from the first Quarter-Hitch. This may seem trivial , but the
"Half-Hitch Rule" is as important for the Half-Hitch, as the "Square-Knot
Rule is for the "Square Knot."
The "Half-Hitch Rule," simply stated, " . . .loop over, loop
under." What this means, is for the first Quarter-Hitch, start with
the bodkin resting on top of the thread. For the second Quarter-Hitch, start
with the bodkin on the bottom of the thread. If the "Half-Hitch" is
done improperly, material can come loose on the fly before you are even
done tying.
Please check out the Fly Tying Section, in the Bulletin Board, on FAOL.
If you have any questions, tips, or techniques; send them along.
Most of this material someone else thought of it before we did,
they just forgot to tell anyone about it. Or else we just forgot
about it, while learning something else. Let us share with
each other, all the things we know! ~ Steven H.
McGarthwaite parnelli@attbi.com (Chat Room AKA Parnelli)
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