A
stable vise, with good jaws to hold the hook firmly, provides the
basic starting point for good fly tying.
Always
tie or wrap your thread in a motion over the top of the fly away
from you.
Sharpen
all larger hooks (size 10 and up) before they are used to tie a
fly.
Before
using a hook, check and make sure it is sharp and will not straighten
out under pressure.
A
common problem with new fly tiers is breaking the thread. To get
a feel for how tight to wrap your fly, intentionally apply force
on the thread until it breaks.
To
avoid sloppy heads, do not tie too close to the hook eye.
Tie
carefully and correctly from the start. Speed will come with practice
and repetition.
For
dry flies:
Avoid all unnecessary wraps of thread. Don't wrap three times
when two will do.
Use the lightest weight materials
Use the least absorbent materials
Choose the best quality hackle
Wet
flies or nymphs should be constructed with materials as water-absorbent
A
stable vise, with good jaws to hold the hook firmly, provides the
basic starting point for good fly tying.