This is the book of classic fly tying instructions you've always needed. Check out our review of The Orvis Guide to the Essential American Flies: How to Tie the Most Successful Freshwater and Saltwater Patterns.
Fly fishing is one of those activities that you can always dive deeper within. Once anglers cross over into fly tying territory, they've definitely proven that notion.
If that's the case, and you or someone you know is ready to embark on the finicky, frustrating, but functionally fruitful phase of fly tying, then The Orvis Guide to the Essential American Flies: How to Tie the Most Successful Freshwater and Saltwater Patterns by Tom Rosenbauer should be highly considered as a sophisticated instruction manual.
Originally stamped with a 2011 publication date, this new and improved Lyons Press paperback version is freshened for 2021. It has a classic forward from none other than Lefty Kreh, and in fact, it's Kreh who had this to say about the release:
"In this book, Tom Rosenbauer has chosen 20 patterns that have produced over the years. Buy these, learn how and when to use them, and you almost certainly will catch more fish."
Couldn't have said it better myself.
But it really is Rosenbauer whose writing and easy-going attitude about tying flies that helps the book shine. He's done a great job representing the best of the best when it comes to American fly fishing know-how, and The Orvis Company is clearly better off with him helping the cause.
The book connects to historical references, features great storytelling, and does an excellent job of describing what it is a fly tying aficionado needs to know about the supplies, equipment, and techniques most frequently used. I liked the way it came across as though it were speaking to anglers, fly fisherman to fly fisherman, in a comfortable manner. It lets you feel like if you can get good at these originators, you're setting the foundation for a fly tying future.
And it sets you up well whether you're fishing one of the many classic American trout streams or some other fishing location our great country offers.
The bottom line is, your fishing adventures will only be enhanced with a book like this in your collection.
There are both freshwater and saltwater flies covered within the pages, and the book serves as a testament to flies that have stood the test of times. The Parachute Adams, Wooly Bugger streamer, and Clouser Minnow are old standards by now, and you'll learn how to tie them all.
If you've ever encountered The Orvis Guide to Fly Fishing or one of the many other Orvis publications, you know the company represents the seminal authority on the subject. Whether you're looking for a new book to read, shopping for the holidays, or creating a wishlist for yourself, this book should be considered.
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