Shorter days and cold weather make winter ideal for building skills at the vise. Here's why, and how our lessons can help.
When the rivers are iced up or the weather keeps you indoors, there's no better way to stay connected to fly fishing than at the tying vise. Winter is the perfect season to start tying flies or to sharpen your skills—and The Patient Angler makes it easy with lessons for every level.
Shorter days and cold weather naturally push us inside. Instead of putting the sport on hold until spring, use that time to learn patterns, experiment with materials, and build a box full of flies you'll trust when the water opens up again. Catching a fish on a fly you tied yourself is one of the most satisfying moments in fly fishing, and winter is when you can put in the practice without rushing.
The Patient Angler offers fly tying instruction right here at the shop in Bend. Our Fly Tying 101 classes are perfect if you're new to the vise. In a small group setting we cover the basics: how to use the tools, how to read recipes, how to choose quality materials, and how to tie the patterns you'll actually use on the water. We don't just teach the knots and wraps—we talk about where and how to fish each pattern so you're ready when the season turns.
Be prepared to bring your own vise. For those who've already completed 101 or have some tying experience, our Fly Tying 201 class dives into more advanced techniques and creative ways to attach materials. It's less structured so you can focus on the flies you want to learn.
Whether you're tying for the first time or adding new patterns to your repertoire, winter is the ideal time to do it. Stop by the shop or give us a call to sign up for the next Fly Tying 101 or 201—we'd love to help you make the most of the off-season.
