A Simple Tool That Changed My Fly Tying…

While I’ve been in recovery, I decided it would be a good time to put together a few equipment recommendations—little things that make tying easier, cleaner, or just more enjoyable. One tool in particular took me a while to admit I acutally needed, but once I finally gave it a shot, it changed my tying in more ways than I expected.

Most upper-end vise companies sell background screens. Their purpose is simple: isolate the fly you’re working on from whatever visual clutter is behind it. That contrast helps your eyese relax and your focus sharpen, especially when you’re tying small patterns or working with fine materials. The downside? Those screens run anywhere from $30 to $100, which always felt a little steep for what they are.

Then I stumbled on something unexpected—a microphone windscreen on Amazon.

For nine bucks.

It has an adjustable neck, a sturdy clamp, and a circular frame where you can insert whatever background you want. I cut discs in different colors of 2mm foam so I can swap them out depending on the fly. It even doubles as a great photo backdrop for finished patterns. For me, it’s been one of those “Why didn’t I start using this earlier?” tools.

At $9, it’s an easy experiment. Try it. See if it helps your eyes, your tying, or your photos the way it has for me.

And if you have any gear hacks or equipment reviews of your own—expensive or budget-friendly—send them in. Let’s start sharing what works and make this whole craft just a little easier for all of us.