Finishing A Fly

[ironfly]

I know several veteran tyers that rarely do the full whip finish and cement anymore, and I find myself following suit. It seems like it's just not necessary if the rest of the fly is well tyed. I realize many of us use different techniques depending on the fly; I'll use 2 whip finishes and Zap-a-Gap for Pike flies. But I didn't want to add a "Some/all of the above" choice, because I thought that would be too easy.

 

If anyone is unfamiliar with the "glue only" technique, you apply glue (Zap-a-Gap works best) to the thread between the shank and the bobbin, make a few wraps, give it a moment to set, and trim. Of course you can also throw a knot on top of the glue. Best way I know of to prevent wicking of excess glue into absorbent materials.

[SilverDoctor]

For commercial tying I finish the heads nicely, but for myself, I use the traditional method, I just wax the tread and whip. haven't had one come apart in 50 years.

 

 

I know several veteran tyers that rarely do the full whip finish and cement anymore, and I find myself following suit. It seems like it's just not necessary if the rest of the fly is well tyed. I realize many of us use different techniques depending on the fly; I'll use 2 whip finishes and Zap-a-Gap for Pike flies. But I didn't want to add a "Some/all of the above" choice, because I thought that would be too easy.

 

If anyone is unfamiliar with the "glue only" technique, you apply glue (Zap-a-Gap works best) to the thread between the shank and the bobbin, make a few wraps, give it a moment to set, and trim. Of course you can also throw a knot on top of the glue. Best way I know of to prevent wicking of excess glue into absorbent materials.

 

[Guest 420FLYFISHIN]

crazy/gorilla glue just a drop

 

[Simpson]

thread brushed with glue on final head wraps. Two whip finishes

[ironfly]

What's the "other"?

[FraserN]

Several half-hitches, folled by some head cement.

[ironfly]

Wasn't that already on the list, as the third option?

[Guest Dennis59]

I just whip finish. I have yet to have a fly come apart because of the whip finish.

 

Tight Lines Always

DennisS

[Wolfie]

whip finish just 5-7 turns depending on size of fly..then finish the head off with whatever I prefer and in these days...UV varnish from Wales..excellent finish..and this is done either for myself or others...Wolfie