dennis p lee
fishery scientist, fly tier, author
fly tying lessons
fly tying
The art of tying artificial flies has been in practice for over 500 years. Earliest fishing flies portrayed in books were English wet fly patterns described in Treatise on Fishing with an Angle in 1494. Later Isaack Walton described fly fishing in The Compleat Angler in 1653, and a second part of the book provided instructions for making of artificial flies. During the following centuries, fly tying progressed using both old and modern fly tying materials and tools. Today, fly tying remains as one of the most popular pastimes for fly anglers when they are not fishing.
Dennis has been tying flies since 1968 while attending Humboldt State University in Arcata, California. Over the years, he has tied flies for several commercial businesses, at numerous fishing events and is recognized as an accomplished fly tyer. For several years he has taught a Beginning Fly Tying class at Fly Fishing Specialties 6360 Tupelo Drive, Citrus Heights, CA 95621.
lessons for fly tying
Beginning Fly Tying classes have been postponed until further notice. Class dates will be publicized at the shop when resumed. Cost of the class is $25.00 per student. Classes are two hours in length with students learning how to use basic fly tying tools, a short introduction to fly tying materials, and approaches of fly tying. In the class students will tie several flies of one popular fly pattern. Fly tying materials and hooks are provided. A few tying vices and tools are available for beginners. However, students are encouraged to bring their own tools. Fly tying tools include –
- Fly Tying vise (w/free standing base)
- Hackle Pliers
- Fly Tying scissors
- Bobbin with black thread
- Bodkin (needle)
- Whip Finishing Tool (optional)
Dennis also offers advanced fly tying instruction for those individual tyers who want to improve their skills of a particular technique, fly style or specific pattern. Personal fly tying instruction is one of the best methods for learning how to tie successful fishing flies and enhance ones skills. Advanced Fly Tying Sessions will be scheduled by appointment when resumed and similar to the Beginning Fly Tying class, held at Fly Fishing Specialties in Citrus Heights. Sessions can be scheduled by using the Contact Form. Cost for Advanced Tying Sessions is $25.00 per hour, minimum two hours of instruction.
Please use the Contact Form on this website for more information on Beginning Fly Tying classes or Advanced Fly Tying sessions.
