Few things have changed as much in the fly fishing world over the last two decades as streamer fishing has. With the ever expanding range of synthetic materials, the pioneering use of both old and new techniques, and modern twists on older natural materials, modern streamer tying has been revolutionized.
And, no doubt, this has resulted in many, many big fish being taken on the fly.
This two-part class will leap headlong into the world of modern streamer tying. From modern synthetics to feathers and furs that tyers have been using for centuries, we will explore the materials available to the adventurous streamer tyer. We will talk hooks, beads and the various masks that can be used today. We will explore the many different techniques that tyers employ to get maximum effect out of their materials—things like dubbing loops, articulating flies, stacking and spinning. We will take a close look at the work of many influential tyers—Kelly Galloup, Mike Schmidt, Rich Strolis, and Blane Chocklett, among others–and dissect how and why they employ certain materials and techniques. And, of course we will tie several patterns that cover a variety of styles and materials.
More than simply teaching a few patterns, this class will take a deep dive into the concepts of streamer design—how the components of the fly from tail to body to wing to collar to head work to give the fly a certain look and action in the water and how different materials produce different effects. The goal of the class is to get tyers comfortable tying, and even designing, their own streamers.
Class meets on successive Sundays, February 18 and 25, at 3 pm and should run about three hours each time. Cost is $75 total. Students should have at least basic tying experience. Bring your own vise, tools and threads. Other materials will be provided. Call Brian at 413-397-3665 or email [email protected] for more information or to sign up.