Doug:
In addition to asking the local fly shop for a representative perfect fly, they might be able to show you how to tie one. The local fly shop I frequent offers free tying and casting lessons every Saturday and will schedule free individual lessons if there's nobody else signed up. Makes sense from a business development perspective. Ane if you stop in and they're not busy they might show you right then.
Just a thought,
Kev
From: "Dr. Doug Miller" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Reply-To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: [VFB] Final word - perfect patterns
Date: Fri, 15 Nov 2002 08:33:25 -0600
Let me see if I can explain what I am looking for more clearly.
The very first fly I learned to tie was an Adams. I bought one of those
packaged kits that has enough material for three or four flies and began
tying. Through the years, I have accumulated material, tools, books, etc.
I have been content to tie flies that were good enough to catch a fish or
two in the Gunnison, the White River in AR, the wilderness of Maine, and off
the Atlantic Coast.
However, I do not have the confidence that my flies are worth swapping. I
am SURE that the patterns I tie could be improved. You would agree with
that.
Here's the problem: without something to compare my flies to (other than my
own ego or a two dimensional picture) I have no way of judging progress or
critiquing myself. Hence the need for a "benchmark" fly. Not one suitable
for framing or one to simply collect; just a good working model of a certain
pattern. A picture does not allow me to feel the stiffness of a hackle; a
view from different angles; to float the fly in a glass of water and see how
it rests in the surface film.
Suppose I went to the nearest fly shop, closed my eyes, dipped my hand into
the Adams drawer and withdrew a fly. Would this fly be a good
representation of what a well-tied Adams should look like? I simply do not
know.
Someone was kind enough to suggest that I eneter lots of swaps and host a
few. I will take their advice - and apologize for my flies and solicit
critique along the way.
Thanks for letting me be part of this list! I am learning with every day -
and am in the company of some really great fly folks!
Doug
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