Celebration of Fly Tying planned for GR

The Grand River Fly Tiers (GRFT) a Federation of Fly Fishers club is hosting a Celebration of Fly Tying on Saturday, February 26, 2011 at the Knights of Columbus Hall located at 5830 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, Michigan 49509. (between 54th and 68th street off of US 131).

Thirty tiers from the greater Midwest will share their skills, art and lore of the quietest sport, fly tying.  Some of the premier tiers in the region will participate.  Tying greats like Ray Schmidt, Chris Helm, Dennis Potter, Christopher Soule, Julie Nielsen, Kevin Feenstra, Jeff ‘Bear’ Andrews, and Jim Reed are just a few of the talented tiers that will be on hand.

A “Close-UP Video Tying Theater” will be set up on the elevated stage.  A professional, close-up camera, two 32” LCD monitors and PA system and plenty of comfortable seating will ensure that everyone will be able to see even the smallest flies in great detail.  Throughout the day, select tiers will conduct special tying seminars in the theater.

There will be no fund-raising, auction or raffle.  Sales will be limited to the flies, fly tying materials and associated instructional items such as DVD’s and books featuring the tier.

Great Lakes Fly Fishing Co. and the Hex Shop will be selling fly tying materials and related supplies.

They will have a bamboo rod maker, a net maker and graphite rod maker on hand.  These craftsmen will showcase their skills and products.

Tables manned with instructors and helpers will be available for those wanting to learn to tie a fly or two.  It is a great way to see how it’s done and give it a try.  GRFT will have a few young tiers on hand from their youth program showing that one need not be a seasoned tier to create a good fly.

Lunch and snacks will be available from the hall’s food vendor.

Doors open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Costs: $10 adults
$5 12-17
11 and younger, no charge with a paid adult

Contact Dennis Potter, Celebration Chair at [email protected] with any questions.

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