Question about hand tied flies. I ask simply because I know nothing of the industry.

[Snakeman]

In hope of not pissing anybody off:

I ordered about 7 flies from someone who hand ties. It’s been about 4 months. Now I don’t think that I have found 7 magic flies that are going to change the game, so I don’t mind waiting for quality flies. However, how long should I wait to communicate with the company making sure my order is still in place.
I’ll add I have started tying flies, and appreciate the community, whether it’s sharing stories, tips. Further questions like are small fly tying companies sustainable. Are they this busy?

Any info or personal experience would be greatly appreciated.

 

[mszoke1802]

4 months is a long time. and I'd say all flies are hand tied, just a matter of where and the quality of the fly. But I would have sent an email about 3 months ago if the timing wasn't noted on the ordering page.

 

[dudemanspecial]

4 months for 7 flies? Did they give you a timeframe when you ordered?

I would have expected them within 2 weeks at the absolute latest.

 

[Snakeman]

I did follow up with them a month after my order was confirmed. I was told all is well, orders are processed as they come in, and allow a 4-6wk window for processing. There’s also I a pair of scissors in that order. But still..
I’ve ordered handmade scissors and special kitchen knives from Japan that haven’t taken this long.
Different industry but..

 

[nfrechet]

what were the flies?

 

[Bamboozle]

You might need to find a new source for flies & scissors... 😉

I can't imagine ANY major fly fishing dealer taking more than a few days to fill a fly order and the same goes for scissors unless it is something really special.

In regards to shipments from Japan, I order more than a few tackle items through Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) dealers and get my stuff in 2-3 days.

 

[tjsingle]

Yeah that's too long, and pretty ridiculous. Most fly tiers I have bought from have been a quick turnaround, less than a week typically.

 

[spm]

I agree with everyone above; that is way too long for 7 flies. And yes, all flies are hand-tied. I have not heard a machine having been invented that will tie a fly.

As far as scissors, I am very happy with 3 Swords
Germany brand scissors. I have two pair.

steve