Another internet success story. Used forum advice and took the plunge into fly tying. Tied my first three flies over Thanksgiving. Not professional but I bet they catch fish, which after all is why I am doing this. The advice on equipment is invaluable. I would never have known where to get or what to get without it. Purchasing the Dan vise w/ the tools Al selected with it made a really cost effective entry path.
Other advice and sites on ?How to Tie? have been a Godsend. I would have never, ever, never figured out how to use a Thompson whip finisher just reading written instructions, NEVER! Sites like www.tie1on.net/#animations are truly invaluable.
Being a newbie, I would advise others to buy the kits that y?all recommended. Starting out with these simple to tie patterns, the gurgler and wooly booger sure build your confidence. Plus the kits keep you out of the jungle of fly tying materials that you know nothing about. You get what you need, period. I would have bought stuff I did not need and might not ever use if not for the kits.
I am looking forward to finding a club in my town and learning more. Till then, Thanks for all of the really fine information on how to get started!
Mark, I’m hoping you did check out the Tying Instructions here on FAOL. Click on Fly Tying, left-hand menu. You will find Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced and Atlantic. The movies of both the Thompson and Marterelli Whip finishers instruction are there as well.
Well Mark I don’t know if there are any clubs in your town, but as like mine I’ve had to go on-line to fill my needs. It would be nice to have someone to fish with though. Al is knowledgeable when it comes to fly tying and fly fishing with much to share. I have a Dan Vise and like tying on it a lot. I have watched or read your posts this past year and have seen you develop with joy in your heart toward this great sport of fly fishing. Many post brought back memories of my struggle and rewards over the years learning what you will and have yet to come. Hang in there and everything will come together and one day you will say cool been there and did that. This is a great sport.
Hobo
Here is another site (WWFF) on whip finishes minus the Thompson that seems to be missing so far. Elmer doesn’t have the Thompson whip finish up yet but I think most all of them are there other than that. Link below.