Method Flies Blog

A few weeks ago, I decided to hit up an area just north of Twin Falls and wash my fly line, as I like to call it. I grabbed my gear and traveled up highway 93 towards Shoshone. Just as I was approaching Shoshone, I decided to make a quick detour towards Richfield and hit up a section of the Little Wood River and Silver Creek just south of Carey. When I got to my spot, I broke out the gear and made my way into the water. Now, I enjoy tying flies and I have had some good luck in selecting the right fly for the occasion, or at least enough to entice a bite most the time, but on this trip, I struggled all day long.  The issue?  I wasn’t paying attention to the line and leader setup, and I wasted an entire afternoon trying to put everything I had in front of the fish… but I had no chance. Everyone else but me knows that the leader connecting your fly to your line can sometimes make or break a day of fishing. It’s not as simple as matching the weight of your leader to the fish you p...

Fly fishing, an art as much as a sport, hinges on a crucial element: the fly. Anglers are often faced with a dilemma: should they purchase commercially tied flies or tie their own at home? This question isn't just about convenience; it delves into the heart of what fly fishing means to each individual. Today I thought I would explore some thought-provoking points on both sides of the "buy versus tie" debate. The Case for Buying Commercially Tied Flies... One of the biggest advantages of buying flies, and arguably the most important factor most consider, is the convenience factor. Tying your own flies requires time, patience, and a certain level of skill. For busy anglers or those just starting out, commercially tied flies offer a quick and easy solution to get out on the water.  Another great reason to buy commercially tied flies is that professional fly tiers have honed their craft to produce flies of consistent quality. These flies are often tied using advanced techniqu...

As the mercury dips and most anglers pack away their gear, a serene yet exhilarating opportunity arises for the hardy souls who embrace winter fly fishing in Southern Idaho. The crisp, cold air and the quiet banks of the region's rivers and streams offer a unique and peaceful fly-fishing experience unlike any other season. Winter in Southern Idaho transforms the landscape into a tranquil, frosty paradise, but it also presents unique challenges to fly fishers. Fish are less active in cold water, and their metabolism slows down, making them more lethargic and less likely to chase after food. Trout are cold-blooded (ectothermic) animals, meaning their body temperature is regulated by the surrounding environment. In winter, water temperatures drop significantly, especially in rivers and streams. This cooler water reduces the metabolic rate of trout, leading to decreased activity levels. They require less food and expend less energy as their bodies adjust to the colder conditions. Cold ...

Today, I wanted to take a minute to talk about something a lot of folks are doing as I am tying up a few of the Sakasa Kebari. Let’s chat a little about the world of tenkara fishing. If you're looking for a serene, minimalist approach to fly fishing, tenkara might just be your new favorite method. Let's explore what makes this ancient Japanese technique so special. 1. The Basics of Tenkara Fishing Tenkara fishing is a traditional Japanese method that emphasizes simplicity and precision. Instead of a reel, tenkara relies on a fixed-length line, a rod, and a single fly. There's no need for complicated gear, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. 2. The Tenkara Rod Central to tenkara fishing is the specialized tenkara rod. It's typically longer and more flexible than traditional fly rods, often extending to 12 feet or more. The extended length allows for precise casting and delicate presentation of the fly. 3. Fixed-Length Line Tenkara fishing uses a f...

Hey there, fly fishing enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers! Welcome to the Method Flies blog. I'm Wes Barone, your host and the owner of Method Flies, your one-stop destination for all things related to custom fly tying. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just dipping your toes into the world of fly fishing, this blog is here to cater to your passion and curiosity. Method Flies isn't just a business for me; it was born from a passion for fly fishing. I enjoy spending time by the water, and at home at the vise, perfecting my fly-tying skills and experimenting with various patterns to create the most effective and attractive flies. Now, I'm excited to share what I have learned along the way, techniques, and insights with all of you. Here's a sneak peek of what you can expect from the Method Flies blog: Fly Tying Tips: Whether you're a beginner looking to tie your first fly or a seasoned pro seeking advanced techniques, we'll have you covered. I'll be shar...