Wooly Buggered

“Mama, why is Dada crying?”

“That’s the sound of failure son. Avert your eyes. It’s impolite to stare at someone’s shame.”

Wyoming winters are long, dark and cold. Not being a snow-sports person, I’ve cast about for years, with increasing desperation, for an activity that will help keep me sane from the end of big game season until ice-out. Fly-tying has long been on the prospect list for obvious reasons. But for all the craft’s purported artistic, spiritual and practical virtues – if nothing else I could use the flies – I’ve thus far steered clear. Fine motor skills and detail orientation just aren’t my strong suits. When my in-laws generously gave me a starter kit though, I decided it was time to take the plunge.

Maybe I should just stick with scotch.

8 Comments on “Wooly Buggered

    • Thanks for the show of solidarity. It’s good to know I’m not alone in this. Happy New Year Mike. May it be filled with eager fish and well tied flies (or at least tied well enough).

  1. For what it’s worth, I had exactly the same thoughts as you when I got a starter kit for fathers day a couple of years ago. I’m still far from an expert, but have tied many many flies just like yours. Stay with it…you will be amazed at how you progress.

    • Hi MacLoosh. If your gallery is any indication of what two years experience can do for a guy…. Thanks for the encouragement.

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