. . 61
MY FAVORITE FLIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
STANDARD DRESSINGS OF 334 FLIES . . . . . . . . . . . 69

{vi}

[Illustration: Diagram 1. Page sized drawing of parts of a fly.]

{vii}

INTRODUCTION

The object of this book will be throughout its entirety to teach in a
practical manner the art of Fly Tying in all its branches. The
principles used herein, and the methods of construction employed, are
those used by the professional fly-tier who practices fly-making for the
sake of art, and tries to achieve with each finished fly, a masterpiece.

None of the short-cuts employed by those whose business is quantity
production will be attempted. Only the making of flies of the very
highest quality and most durable construction will be attempted.
In describing the principals of construction with the following
illustrations, it will be impossible to describe in detail each
standard pattern; however, it must be remembered that the fundamentals
applying to each style of fly will be the principal bases of
construction of all flies of that style, and that the use of different
body materials, hackles, wings or size will simply change the pattern
and not the fundamental points of construction.

Dressings for hundreds of standard patterns will be found fully
described elsewhere in this book. For clearness {viii} of understanding
please note that where a fly is described in this book as having grey
wings, or red body, etc., and no particular feather or material is
specified, it means that any feather or body material may be used. When
a particular feather, body, hackle, tail, etc., must be used it will be
so stated.

Each year a steadily increasing number of anglers are learning to tie
their own flies. Not many years ago, there were few in America outside
of professional tiers who understood the art. Now on each angling trip,
at least one is sure to be met, who has discovered the great thrill of
taking fish on flies of his own tying.

To those who are anticipating the making of their own flies for the
first time, there is the opportunity to exercise one's ingenuity in the
creation of new patterns. To prolong your fishing seasons throughout the
long winter evenings, in the confines of your own den, where, with a
supply of fur, feathers and tinsel, can be enjoyed a profitable,
artistic and pleasant hobby. And the thrill of seeing in each finished
imitation of Ephemeridae, Muscidae and Formi