cast-a-way

Hmm, the flexible plastic tubing got me thinking that maybe using heat-shrink tubing might work well too. It comes in a variety of sizes, is easy to work with, and is readily available. Has anyone every tried it? Castaway

Which one of A.K.'s books has this info in it? And, do you guys recommend his other books as well? Thanks. Castaway

Fry, If you're looking for a damsel adult pattern, here's one: http://www.charliesflyboxinc.com/flybox/de...fm?parentID=123 If you're after a nymph, the one Joe directed you to is nice.... Castaway

I try to tie at least half a dozen, but rarely carry more than 3 of any one pattern/size. As it is, I think I carry far too many fly boxes to the water, but I always have trouble deciding at home, which flies to take and which to leave behind. My vest is so heavy that if I ever fall into deep water, I'll go straight to the bottom...... Castaway

Do you use bobins to hold materials other than thread? Do they reduce waste? Do they improve the quality of your flies? Do they help you tie faster? What materials do you mount in bobbins? Castaway

Step-by-Step instructions for tying the Flashback Scud can be found at: http://www.charliesflyboxinc.com/flybox/de...cfm?parentID=58 I've had some good luck with this pattern. Castaway.

I know the gills in my waters will love this nymph ... gotta tie me a few! Thanks for sharing.... Castaway

About two months ago I also bought a skin from Plumes & Feathers. The skin I received smells ok, but I was disappointed in it. It seemed undersized to me and had been badly packaged - the neck was folded over and as a result many of the finest feathers were damaged. I do have to admit however, it was inexpensive. Castaway

I too am seeing more articles on soft hackles. I love them .. they're fun to tie, look great, and best of all, catch lots of fish. Castaway

What is it? Well, in my opinion, it's a pain in the butt. Actually, I use it when necessary and avoid it otherwise. My rough hands tend to fray it pretty badly. Castaway

When my hunting buddies give me feathers, I microwave them for about a minute. Never seems to hurt the feathers and I figure that's gotta kill any unwanted critters. I don't know for sure if it really works, but it makes me feel better. Castaway

Thanks for the advise Flyweaver. I'll give your method a try ... sounds a lot better than the way I've been trying. And some of the feathers I've got are just begging to be used for soft hackle. Thanks Again! Castaway.

Nice looking flies ... I think I'll tie up a few myself today!

Also, keep in mind that bluegills love many of the trout patterns. If you see one that looks good to you, tie it sized right for gills and give it a try. Just last week the wife and I caught some large (9") gills on #14 Hare's Ears.

Years ago (too many to mention) I tied flies and sold them on Ebay and actually made a profit, but even that market is gone now - flooded with imports. With only large chain fly shops around my home waters, I'm now reduced to tying just for myself and my buddies. Although there is no money in it for me anymore, it is now more fun than it was when I tied for $'s.