Fly Tying Tip #120

When we look at flies that are time honored,  there is a simplicity and purpose to the materials.  Keep your work simple and use less rather than more.

This is The Wood Special created by Joe Sterling in the 1930's.  Notice the symmetry of back and front and the vibrant choice of contrast in the center.   Almost like Joe was sending Morse Code.

Many great flies share this composition.  Keep things simple with dots and dashes in contrast and not only will your tying improve but your catch rate as well.