If there is no shame in using strike indicators, mop flies, and GPS-enabled cell phones in the pursuit of fish, there is absolutely no shame in using a small device to help you tie your fly on. Furthermore, when has a fly fisher ever been in a place where they can look down on using a gadget without incurring the accusation of hypocrisy?

The most common reasons individuals use helps are eyesight impairments and dexterity issues. Beginners also gravitate towards products that can make their learning curve a little less steep. If you fall into one of those categories, you should confidently and joyfully use whatever you need to use to get fishing. However, those are certainly not the only reasons that a tool can or should be employed.

Cold weather and wind can make handling flies of any size a challenge. If those flies are tiny? A simple piece of gear may very well be preferable to the frustration of frozen fingers dropping bugs or watching the wind send a bunch of midges into  the void.

That is why you might want to consider adding magnification, knot tying, and threading tools to your pack or vest without any shame.

While protecting your flies and actually getting them on the important end of your line is vital, there are other uses for helpful tools. A little magnifying lens can be invaluable in getting started when assessing an ugly knot that needs to be untangled. If there is more than too much head cement clogging up your hook eye, a knot tool will give you the grip to torque the epoxy out. Threaders are handy for threading, but they are also about the safest way to simply store and organize tiny midges.

Here is an example of each product that is worth checking out:

MagniFly

Designed by the good people who make the essential FlyTrap Fly Holder, this clip on 3X magnifying lens in very versatile. You can attach it to your wader strap, vest, or hat bill. The powerful magnets let you keep the flies you’ll be working with handy as you tie knots for multi-fly rigs. The lens is on a swivel, allowing you to put it precisely where you need it or fold it flush to keep it out of the way.

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Ty-Rite

For nearly 60 years, this little pen-shaped device has done two things and it has done them well. First, the spring loaded hook holder keeps flies secure as you’re doing whatever you need to do. Second, the simple shape allows you to spin it around to create a tight little clinch knot.

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C&F Design Threader Boxes

Chances are, if you have an image of a threader box in your head it is a C&F model. This stalwart among midge boxes allows you to preload your tiny flies onto the wires at home. On the water, you’re able to slide your tippet through the wire and you’re in business. For tiny flies, it beats compartments, foam, silicone, and magnets.

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Do you have a favorite tool or gadget for storing or using small flies? Let me know in the comments below.