Nearly every fly tyer wants to get better. With focused repetition, patterns become more consistent and come together more quickly. It isn’t in the cards for everyone who sits behind a vise to produce professional-looking bugs. It isn’t necessary, either. Practice makes productive flies that fill boxes and catch fish.
Along with guidance, know-how, and vise hours, there are some truly helpful ways to improve fly patterns. Good materials can’t be overstated. And the right tools open up opportunities for tyers of all skill levels.
Scissors, bobbins, and finishing tools come in a plethora of designs, each with their own features and applications. Advanced fly tyers can take advantage of a well-stocked tool drawer. With skill and experience, tools sporting what seems like minor differences can be wielded to impart subtle nuances to patterns that take them from good to better.
For beginner and intermediate tyers, specialty tools have another distinct benefit: they help overcome those little hurdles that everyone encounters while gaining competency. Not circumventing actual learning, the right tools can help redeem slight errors and salvage ties.
Some of the newest tools from Loon Outdoors can aid all tyers realize these benefits.
Multiple times a year, Loon releases new fly tying tools. In an industry that has been around for centuries, it says something that new kinds of tools are being developed and released to high praise. In this most recent batch, a few pieces certainly deserve to be on tyers of all levels’ benches.
The Easy Ergo Cutter is essentially a precision razor blade. The incredibly sharp cutter is perfect for shearing off thread, tinsel, or other materials adjacent to the hook eye. It can also be used to remove stray fibers or even out unevenly applied materials. This aids those who are putting the last, finishing touches on a beautiful tie. It can also round out a few flaws to render a serviceable fly.
With three options at the tyers’ disposal, D-Loop Tweezers provide an exceptional level of accuracy. There are three different tweezers (which are also available as a set), and each has advanced and basic applications. Proficient tyers will be able to capture tiny, delicate dubbing loops. They will be able to manipulate wire wraps, lay down small materials, and pick up the smallest beads. Novices will be able to rearrange things that didn’t go in as planned. With three shapes/orientations, one pair of tweezers is sure to fit the application.
Adjustable bobbins are nothing new. But the Ergo Dialed-In Bobbin is Loon’s easy to use, comfortable in hand iteration. Those who understand the various techniques that employ different thread tensions can quickly change the tension on the fly. New tyers can adapt the bobbin to a level that is comfortable and functional, changing with their materials or patterns while sticking with the same piece of gear.
Another great thing about each of these three tying tools? They’re all priced low enough that you can grab them, give them a shot, and not break the bank as you (quickly) figure out how they fit into your tying routines.