13 best fly tying tools

Fly tying tools are essential equipment used by fly anglers and fly tyers to create custom fishing flies. These tools help in crafting intricate and realistic fly patterns, which can mimic natural prey and attract fish. Here are some common fly tying tools and their purposes:

  1. Vise: A fly tying vise securely holds the hook in place, allowing the tyer to work on the fly with both hands. There are various types of vises, including rotary vises that can rotate the hook for easier access.

  2. Bobbins: Bobbins are used to hold and dispense thread while tying the fly. They come in various sizes and shapes, with different tension adjustments to control thread tension during tying.

  3. Scissors: Precision scissors are essential for cutting materials like thread, feathers, and hair cleanly and precisely.Fly tying scissors typically have fine tips for detailed work.

  4. Hackle Pliers: Hackle pliers help anglers hold and manipulate delicate feathers, fur, or hair for wrapping around the hook shank. They provide better control and ensure even distribution.

  5. Whip Finisher: This tool is used to finish off the fly by creating a secure knot (whip finish) that holds the thread in place. It prevents unraveling and ensures the fly remains intact.

  6. Dubbing Twister: A dubbing twister is used to create a dubbing loop for adding synthetic or natural fur to the fly's body. It allows for customization of body shape and texture.

  7. Hair Stacker: Hair stackers are used to align and even out the tips of hair or feathers before attaching them to the fly. This ensures a uniform appearance and better fly performance.

  8. Dubbing Needle or Bodkin: A dubbing needle or bodkin is a fine-pointed tool used for various tasks, such as applying cement, picking out materials, and adjusting small details on the fly.

  9. Bobbin Threader: A bobbin threader helps thread the fly tying thread through the bobbin tube. It simplifies the process of getting the thread into the bobbin.

  10. Hackle Gauge: A hackle gauge is a tool for measuring and selecting hackle feathers of the right size to match the fly pattern.

  11. Rotary Whip Finisher: A rotary whip finisher is a specialized tool for making a whip finish knot while using a rotary vise. It provides a neat and secure knot to finish the fly.

  12. Cement or Adhesive: Fly tying often involves the use of cement or adhesive to secure materials and knots. Various types of fly tying cement are available, including water-based and solvent-based options.

These fly tying tools are essential for creating a wide range of fly patterns, from dry flies to nymphs and streamers. Fly tyers often invest in high-quality tools to ensure precision and durability, as attention to detail is crucial when crafting flies that imitate natural insects and entice fish to strike.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best fly tying tools on the market
  

Loon Outdoors Complete Fly Tying Kit

Loon Outdoors

Based on 30 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description: The Core Fly Tying Tool Kit and the Accessory Fly Tying Tool Kit put together for anyone who wants to take their bench from zero to hero Features: Durable plastic travel case Ergo All Purpose Scissors Ergo All Purpose Bobbin Ergo Bodkin Ergo Whip Finisher Ergo Hackle Plier Gator Grip Dubbing Spinner D Loop Tweezers Ergo Dubbing Brush Zippy Hair Stacker M Vise Pawn

  • Loon Outdoors Complete Fly Tying Tool Kit

Loon Outdoors Core Fly Tying Kit

Loon Outdoors

Based on 38 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Description: Packaged in a heavy duty travel case and featuring the Ergo All Purpose Scissors Ergo All Purpose Bobbin Ergo Bodkin Ergo Whip Finisher and Ergo Hackle Plier this is an excellent choice as a gift for the first time tyer or the long time tyer who wants to trick out his or her bench with something new Features: Durable plastic travel case Ergo All Purpose Scissors Ergo All Purpose Bobbin Ergo Bodkin Ergo Whip Finisher Ergo Hackle Plier

  • Ergo Hackle Plier
  • Ergo All Purpose Scissors
  • Ergo All Purpose Bobbin
  • Ergo Bodkin
  • Ergo Whip Finisher

Dr Slick Fly Tying Tools Gift Set with Fly Box Combo

Dr. Slick

Based on 156 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Dr Slick Company was founded in 1989 by a surgeon with a passion for Fly Fishing and Fly Tying. The idea for his fly fishing and Fly Tying tools were designed to emulate the high quality of the specialized tools used by surgeons and then modified for fly tying and streamside uses. Designed by fishermen, for fishermen, you'll find innovative and unique tools to suit your tying and angling needs. If you want precision tools made to last, you'll want DR. SLICK

  • Dr Slick fly tying tools are easy to use, durable and esthetically pleasing.
  • Dr Slick fly tying kit is conveniently packaged in the foam lining in the back of a large fly box.
  • You get the most essential fly tying tools geared toward both the novice and the expert fly tyer all in one gift set.
  • All Dr Slick instruments undergo a 6-step inspection process to ensure the highest quality possible.
  • Perfect as a gift, a fly tying tool kit for beginners or a personal gift to yourself.

User questions & answers

Question: What size hair stacker comes with this kit
Answer: Yes - this yoyo comes with one high quality 100% polyester string.
Question: Where are these made
Answer: It is metal!
Question: Am I supposed to remove the rubber shrink wrap that’s on only one of the jaws of the hackle pliers
Answer: For the assortment I received, the range of folded sizes is approximately 45 to 130mm, versus the description of 40-135mm. Close enough, and the sizes given are for the folded length.
Question: Does this kit include a vise
Answer: These are quality rubber belts, nothing like rubber bands from Walmart

SF Fly Fishing Tying Tools Gear Assortment

SF

Based on 157 reviews Check latest price
  • Classic Set: 7-piece knotted set, each individual tool has its own use, conbines both reality and classic element.
  • Appearance: the case of the tying kit is black with contrasting hue of the interior red color adds the beauty. The built-in red flannel never scratch the knotter.
  • Protection: the built-in elastic strip of the knot tying kit fixes the knotters to a certain extent, protecting the knot kits from shaking even in a bumpy truck.
  • Function: featured hook-shaped sharpener, wire cutter, clamp eye cleaner / knot knotter and knotter combination, D-ring for easy connection.
  • Service: SF, dedicated to provide best quality and service for anglers who love fishing, has specialized in fishing tackle supplies 5 years. Any question, please feel free to contact us. We are honorable to support you

User questions & answers

Question: Is there ANY plastic on this vise (knobs etc
Answer: Polypropylene will not weather well in full day, full sun. I'd guess 3-5 yrs at best. If you live in heavy forest with lots of shade, and potentially lots of rain, then it might be a good choice. The real strength of this line is in water, as it is mold and mildew resistant and it sheds water very well.
Question: Does this kit come with instructions on how to use each tool
Answer: Thanks for the question. You'll get the distance to the back, front, and center of the green, as well as the hole number. They are shown in icons and numbers, there's no actual image of the green. TrueToSource Customer Care
Question: Does this kit come with the hair stacker? The photos show it but the description does not mention it
Answer: Thanks for the great question. Yes, courses in Taiwan are preloaded on the Canmore GPS watch. You can check at Canmore's website: http://www.canmore-sport.com/course.html You can also email them directly to ask them to add any course that is missing. Canmore is a Taiwanese company, so you can email them in Chinese.

Product features

Red Flannel

Soft and breathable red flannel provides comprehensive protection for your tools, easy to storage and take.

Everything You Need

7-piece knotted set, Straight scissors, bullet bobbin, bodkin, whip finisher, hair stacker and hackle plier

Use them quickly and conveniently whatever for a small spool or a big one,to improve the efficiency

Fixed Firmly

Simple and effective fixing method,ensure that the tool will not collide and damage during movement

XFISHMAN Fly Tying Tool Kit 7-8-12 in 1 with Bobbin Finisher Scissors Vise Hackle Hair Stacker Fly Fishing Tying Tools Set …

XFISHMAN

Based on 125 reviews Check latest price
  • SUPER ECONOMIC TOOLKIT-- The XFISHMAN Fly Tying Tools Set suits for both beginners and intermediates. It includes 12 basic tools you will need for your fly fishing trips. An added bonus is that it comes in a retro tool bag for organization. this kit is worth your consideration.
  • WHY NEED 4 BOBBINS--Are you still worrying about relacing the threads continually with only one bobbin? We have included 4 kinds of bobbins which could suits all fly tying threads in the market,you can use them quickly and conveniently whatever for a small spool or a big one,to improve the efficiency.
  • RETRO TOOL BAG --This bag was adopted the retro design,you are able to put 10-15 various tools into it. Perfect for travel or just keep all your tools protected and organized.
  • GREAT DEALS --Total of 12 fly tying tools per bag,including RETRO TOOL BAG.(Will cost more than $60 if purchased them separately).
  • EXCELLENT GIFT--This is an excellent choice as a gift for the first-time tyer, or the long-time tyer who wants to trick out his bench with something new.

User questions & answers

Question: Do bobbins have ceramic lining
Answer: My son said...completely unresponsive and good yoyo for the price.

Product features

WHY NEED 4 BOBBINS?

Are you still worrying about relacing the threads continually with only one bobbin? We have included 4 kinds of bobbins which could suits all fly tying threads in the market,you can use them quickly and conveniently whatever for a small spool or a big one,to improve the efficiency.

SUPER ECONOMIC TOOLKIT

The XFISHMAN Fly Tying Tools Set suits for both beginners and intermediates. It includes 7 basic tools you will need for your fly fishing trips. An added bonus is that it comes in a retro tool bag for organization. this kit is worth your consideration.

EXCELLENT GIFT

This is an excellent choice as a gift for the first-time tyer, or the long-time tyer who wants to trick out his bench with something new.

Greatfishing 4pc The Most Useful Fly Tying Tools Combo Kit Gift Stainless Steel Fly Tying Whip Finisher Knot, Fly Tying Bodkin Large, Fly Tying Bobbin Thread Holder, Disc Bobbin Threader M

Greatfishing

Based on 112 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Greatfishing Selected collection of exceptionally 4pc fly tying tools combo kit, from the entry level to the professional tying masters, will find it’s functional and convenient.

Our all tools which comes from best high-precision factory, Innovative design, sturdy quality, Perfect as a gift.

1pc 5.5inch/14cm Brass + stainless steel whip finisher knotter for durability and easy of use.

1pc 4.7inch/12cm brass+stainless steel fly tying bodkin large applying Hook Eye Cleaner Carp Fishing Rigging Needle Drilling Tool.

1pc 5.5inch/14cm stainless steel+brass bobbin thread holder for durability and easy of use.

Pass the wire into the center tube of the winder, then thread the wire on the handle through the wire and remove the threader so that the wire on the handle passes through the center tube and can be tied.

1pc 4.3inch/11cm tainless steel+brass disc bobbin threader for durability and easy of use, Fine polished stainless steel, smooth and do not hurt the line.

  • Greatfishing Selected collection of exceptionally 4pc fly tying tools combo kit, from the entry level to the professional tying masters, will find it’s functional and convenient. Our all tools which comes from best high-precision factory, Innovative design, sturdy quality, Perfect as a gift.
  • 1pc 5.5inch/14cm Brass + stainless steel whip finisher knotter for durability and easy of use.
  • 1pc 4.7inch/12cm brass+stainless steel fly tying bodkin large applying Hook Eye Cleaner Carp Fishing Rigging Needle Drilling Tool.
  • 1pc 5.5inch/14cm stainless steel+brass bobbin thread holder for durability and easy of use. Pass the wire into the center tube of the winder, then thread the wire on the handle through the wire and remove the threader so that the wire on the handle passes through the center tube and can be tied.
  • 1pc 4.3inch/11cm tainless steel+brass disc bobbin threader for durability and easy of use, Fine polished stainless steel, smooth and do not hurt the line.

User questions & answers

Question: Is the handle on the whip finish tool supposed to spin? I think mine is broken
Answer: Yes - the Replay PRO includes a high quality 100% Polyester string.
Question: is it worth the money
Answer: Yes, the Replay PRO includes one high quality 100% polyester string.

JSHANMEI Fly Tying Tool Kit Includes Bobbin Finisher Scissors Hackle Hair Stacker Fly Fishing Flies Tying Tools Set

Jasmine

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price
  • JSHANMEI fly tying tools are easy to use, durable and esthetically pleasing.
  • 7 Kinds of the most useful tools included, conveniently packaged in a reusable plastic box.
  • You get the most essential fly tying tools geared toward both the novice and the expert fly tyer all in one gift set.
  • All instruments undergo an inspection process to ensure the highest quality possible.
  • Perfect as a gift, a fly tying tool kit for beginners or a personal gift to yourself.

XFISHMAN Fly-Tying-Bobbin-Holder 2 Pack Fly Fishing Ceramic Bobbin with Bobbin Threader Holder Fly Tying Tools Set

XFISHMAN

Based on 46 reviews Check latest price
  • ULTRA-FITTING HYPERBOLOID DESIGN—The hyperboloid design processed by CNC machine twhich can fit the fingers 100% and bring a perfect grip feeling. Reducing the fatigue of tying flies for a long time
  • SUPPER SMOOTH CERAMIC HOLE-- Prevent the thread from becoming frayed
  • USER-FRIENDLY –The bobbin handle processed by CNC machine has a beautifully patterned surface, which not only has a very delicate visual experience, but also has a non-slip effect.
  • DURABLE AND EASY TO CONTROL--The manufacturer applied high-quality materials and ensures the perfect finish.
  • WILL FIT YOUR THREAD SPOOLS-- XFISHMAN Adjustable Tension Bobbin is adjustable for all of your thread spools and will accept standard sizes making your fly tying easier and more fun

Product features

XFISHMAN Fly Tying Bobbin
SMOOTH CERAMIC HOLE

Prevent the thread from becoming frayed

Unique FITTING DESIGN

The bobbin handle processed by CNC machine has a beautifully patterned surface, which not only has a very delicate visual experience, but also has a non-slip effect.

DURABLE AND EASY TO CONTROL

The manufacturer applied high-quality materials and ensures the perfect finish.

Dr. Slick Arrow Scissor, 3-1/2", Gold Loops, Straight

Dr. Slick

Based on 76 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Short fine-bladed scissor designed for small flies and detail work. The notch at the base of the blades is designed for cutting wire and lead. Excellent for natural materials and can handle most synthetics. Great scissor for in-hand tyers.

  • Top Quality Dr. Slick
  • Curved Blades
  • Serrated Blades
  • Gold Loops
  • 3.5 Inches

User questions & answers

Question: Are these straight or curved? Top says straight, when I put the set in my cart they showed a pic of curved scissors. I want straight
Answer: If you are asking about the piece of black rubber glued to the inside of one of the “tabs” on the hackle plier, you should leave that. It is there to help grip the feather without cutting it. I hope this helps.
Question: How would they work with fishing line? Fireline especially
Answer: No vise included. Quality tools
Question: Are they micro scissors
Answer: The 6 year old children should be guided by their parents, thank you.

Creative Angler Bobbin Threader for Fly Tying, Fly Fishing Flie or Lure Making Tool

Creative Angler

Based on 76 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Catch more and bigger fish! Upgrade your fly tying kit with a tool that will help you thread bobbins quickly and easily: Creative Angler Bobbin Threader. This handy fishing accessory is recommended for both beginners and experts.



Features



-Easy to use



-Durable brass metal



-Affordable



-Great for novice and professionals -Package Dimensions: 7.0 x 2.5 x 0.3 inches



Get a bobbin threader that is perfect for any fly tyer. Get Creative Angler Bobbin Threader and be more successful with fly fishing!

  • PERFECT FOR FLY TYING: Thread bobbins quickly and easily with this useful fly tying tool. Save yourself time and the frustration of threading your bobbin by hand.
  • This wire threader makes threading bobbins quick and easy. This threader eliminates the frustration of you trying to thread your bobbin by hand.
  • EFFORTLESS TO USE: Simply place the threader through the tube of the bobbin. Then run the thread through the oversized threading wire, and pull the thread through the bobbin. That’s it!
  • GET YOUR MONEY’S WORTH: Save yourself from fly tying headaches and get this convenient tool at an affordable price. Recommended for both beginners and experts.
  • SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: Creative Angler only provides premium quality fly fishing and fly-tying tools. Gear up for a fun day on the water and get ready to catch more!

User questions & answers

Question: What’s the length
Answer: The Dr. Slick kit comes with the medium size hair stacker. - J. Stockard
Question: Will it work for smaller flies
Answer: The scissors are packed, inspected and sharpened in Belgrade, Montana. Believe most scissors are sourced from Pakistan.

Aventik 3 in 1 Classic Wooden Fly Tying Tool Caddy Fishing Tools Organizer, Station Fly Tying Accessories Designed by Fly Tying Specialist

Aventik

Based on 57 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Aventik classic wood Fly Tying Tool Caddy, designed by fly tying Specialist, organize in better order of your tools such as scissor, bobbin, whip finisher, glue, hackle pliers, threader and other tinny accessories such as hooks and beads.

Professional design great improvement in the working bench. Save time from searching around your tools, and more time for tying. Also light weight and easy for travelling. 3pc a set.

Component A. 9.2 inches x 5.2 inches x 1 inches (23*13*2.5cm). There is a total of 32 openings to store your tools. Extra three large openings for glue bottles.

Component B. 9.2 inches x 3.4 inches x 0.8 inches (23*8.5*2cm). There is 6 large opennings for hooks & beads, and extra 4 small openings for tools or thread spool bars.

Component C. 9.2 inches x 1.8 inches x 0.8 inches (23*4.5*2cm). There is 4 large opnenings for hooks & beads, and 5 small openning for tools or thread spool bars.

  • Aventik classic wood Fly Tying Tool Caddy, designed by fly tying Specialist, organize in better order of your tools such as scissor, bobbin, whip finisher, glue, hackle pliers, threader and other tinny accessories such as hooks and beads.
  • Professional design great improvement in the working bench. Save time from searching around your tools, and more time for tying. Also light weight and easy for travelling. 3pc a set.
  • Component A. 9.2 inches x 5.2 inches x 1 inches (23*13*2.5cm). There is a total of 32 openings to store your tools. Extra three large openings for glue bottles.
  • Component B. 9.2 inches x 3.4 inches x 0.8 inches (23*8.5*2cm). There is 6 large opennings for hooks & beads, and extra 4 small openings for tools or thread spool bars.
  • Component C. 9.2 inches x 1.8 inches x 0.8 inches (23*4.5*2cm). There is 4 large opnenings for hooks & beads, and 5 small openning for tools or thread spool bars.

User questions & answers

Question: Does yhe pieces hook together some way ? Or do they stay loose
Answer: I purchased the older version and the bobbins did not come with ceramic liners.

Creative Angler Fly Fishing Tying Bobbin and Wire Threader, Thread Spool Holder Tool (Bobbin & Wire Threader Combo)

Creative Angler

Based on 39 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Creative Angler Standard Bobbin and threader are your perfect combo to start tying flys easier.



Creative Angler's bobbin holds your thread spool and conveniently applies your thread through the tip. The perfect size with dimensions 5 inch by 1 inch by .5 Inch and weight of only 2 ounces makes it easy for you to tie flies.



Brass feet allow for smooth rotation of your thread spools



Adjustable for all of your spool sizes.



Creative Angler's wire Threader will make threading your Creative Angler bobbin quick and easy. This threader eliminates the frustration of you trying to thread your bobbin by hand.



Stop struggling, click Add to Cart and Buy Now!

  • MAKES YOUR FLY TYING EASIER: This combo bobbin and wire threader will make it much easier for you to tie your flies so you can easily thread your bobbin. You will spend less time fighting thread and more time tying flies.
  • WILL FIT YOUR THREAD SPOOLS: Creative Angler's standard bobbin is adjustable for all of your thread spools and will accept varying different sizes making your fly tying easier and more fun
  • QUICK AND EASY THREADING: Creative Angler's threader will make it super easy for you to get even the smallest thread through your bobbin. Eliminating your frustrations of trying to thread your bobbin by hand.
  • PERFECT TENSION: Creative Angler's standard bobbin applies just the right amount of pressure to your thread and you can easily apply more by simply pressing the arms together as needed
  • RISK-FREE 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE: Nothing short of being your new favorite bobbin and threader is acceptable. If any concerns, send us an email and we will get back to you within 24 HOURS. If you are not 100% satisfied return your Creative Angler bobbin and threader for a full refund, no questions asked!

AGOOL Fly Tying Tool Kit with Hackle Plier Dubbing Needle Threader Holder Whip Finisher Handle Bullet Bobbin Holder

AGOOL

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Fly Tying Tool Kit With Hackle Plier Dubbing Needle Threader Holder Whip Finisher Handle Bullet Bobbin Holder

  • Use them quickly and conveniently whatever for a small spool or a big one,to improve the efficiency
  • This wire threader makes threading bobbins quick and easy
  • Top quality fly tying performance to any bench
  • 8 Kinds of the most useful tools included
  • Perfect as a gift, a fly tying tool kit for beginners or a personal gift to your friends

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