In an earlier entry, I spoke a bit about a Darby cape that I had acquired a while back. That was only the tip of the iceberg. Part of the fun of fly tying and fly fishing is the learning experience. One way I’ve learned is by collecting flies. While attending a fly fishing show, whether I’m tying or just cruising around, I try to pick up a sample of a fly that I’ve watched being tied. It’s much easier to learn a new pattern with a live model in front you.

My fly collection is also my private museum. It’s adjacent to my office in an old, oak secretary desk. When things get too crazy during a work day, I often wander over to my fly collection and spend a few moments perusing the shelves. I have flies from famous and not so famous tiers. From Mary Dette, Mike Mercer, Dick Talleur and Fishy Fullum, to some of my european friends like Ulf Hagström, Nik Dahlin, Chris Reeves and Andrés Touceda, my collection is rich in different styles and tying concepts. Catskill flies from Dave Brandt, and classic salmon flies from Bill Hrinko.

Swaps are also a great way to add to your collection. I’ve participated in many and am always excited when the little boxes arrive. I’ve posted some larger images on my “FLIES” page. Do I have one of yours in my collection?

Happy Holidays!

Bruce C