The 2011 International

Fly Tying Symposium

A Note From The Director

Welcome to the 21st anniversary of the International Fly Tying Symposium. This year’s theme is “How Swede It Is.” As you might expect from the theme we have at least 10 of Sweden’s best fly tiers coming to the symposium for their first visit. Their skill and creativity is amazing as you will see.

In addition to the Swedes you can visit tables of demonstrating tiers from many other countries.  The Dutch tiers, English, Spanish, Italian, Canadian, Swiss and more will be here to share techniques and make new friends.

Expect a dozen USA tiers visiting for the first time, too. A number of very young tiers that are ready to highlight their skills are excited to appear for the first time. One of the annual reasons the show attracts such a dedicated following is this unique opportunity to meet tiers from so many countries. To learn and compare face to face with others that love to tie creates a warm and friendly atmosphere. We’re all here because we have so much in common, no matter where we live. If you have never taken one of our special morning classes be sure to check out the brochure for this year’s offerings. Talk to someone who has taken a class and see why this is an opportunity not to be missed. And you’ll still have the rest of the day to visit the show.

During your visits to all the tiers and the dealers selling everything we ever need to tie our favorite patterns, pick out some of our talks to attend. These educational seminars are just great and the rooms fill quickly. It’s all part of your ticket price. Same goes for “Featured Tiers and Book Signings.” Special morning classes are the only extra cost.

Back again are the FFF Saturday Tying classes. See the brochure details in the class section. If you have a youngster that wants to learn to tie, this is the place. You’ll see their face light up when they tie their first fly that you won’t see when they’re sitting at their computer.

If you have been saving some money for new fly tying materials, this is definitely the place to buy. There is such a huge selection of the latest materials, necks from the actual growers exhibiting, like Keough and Collins, hooks, tying desks, frames and shadow boxes, artwork, and just about every book and DVD ever produced for fly tying. You’ll have a treasure chest of good stuff to use for your favorite fly patterns and the new ones you’ll sure to learn.

It’s tough to pull yourself away from a tier showing you a great new tying trick, but be sure to attend some of our seminars. The speakers and their talks are a must, so pick the topic that you can’t miss. Get there a few minutes early before all the seats get full. And the nice thing is if the speakers don’t answer all your questions during their program, they’ll be around after the talk. The symposium is recognized for it’s up close and personal feel. That’s why it is the favorite event for many of you.

One last reminder is our Saturday evening banquet is open for you to attend. The seats are limited, so check at our registration desk for available tickets. The food, door prizes, and banquet programs are worth it. So try to attend.

Enjoy the symposium and bring a friend or two! —Chuck Furimsky