The 6 Best Fly Tying Kits
This wiki has been updated 17 times since it was first published in May of 2020. Catching a fish is one of the most exhilarating experiences for the novice or seasoned fly fisherman. But doing so on a hand-tied fly is even better. It can be overwhelming, so we've included everything from refined travel kits to more comprehensive ones containing all that's needed to get started. Bear in mind, you may have to purchase additional tools or materials, depending on the selection. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Creative Angler Zephr Travel Kit
2. Wetfly Deluxe
3. Colorado Anglers Z797
Editor's Notes
June 05, 2020:
Please note that there is some overlap between some available kits. That is, the exact (or seemingly exact) same kit is re-branded under a different name in many cases. For example, the Gunnison River Fly Tying Kit, Creative Angler Deluxe Fly Tying Kit and Scientific Anglers Deluxe Fly Tying Kit appear to be exactly the same as the Wetfly Deluxe. They all come with the same tools, case and instructional DVD, although some of the materials included seem to be all that vary. We chose the Wetfly Deluxe as it is the most reviewed, highest-rated and the most complete and well-rounded beginner's set.
We included the Muskoka Lifestyle Products Starter Kit to supplement the kits which contain only tools. That would be the SF Gear Assortment, Colorado Anglers Z797 and Creative Angler Zephr Travel Kit, since these don't come with material.
These kits are all great starting points, and the general consensus is the deeper one dives into this hobby, the more persnickety one may become, and more than likely will ultimately need to create their own, specialized fly-tying kit to suit their own, specific needs. If you do need to revamp some items, please check out our review of our ten best Fly Tying Vises. And even with an arsenal of Wooly Buggers and Clausers at hand, they may be useless unless you've invested in a good rod.
Special Honors
Orvis Premium Fly-Tying Kit Although more expensive than other options, this highly-rated kit is a great starter set, and comes complete with tools, material and enough hooks to craft 160 flies. It also includes an instructional DVD directed by a famous fly-fishing videographer. The only drawback is if you don't have access to a DVD player, as some of us don't these days, there's no booklet or online tutorial available. All in all, this is a great option, and Orvis has a reputation as one of the world's leading fly-fishing companies. orvis.com
4. SF Gear Assortment
5. Muskoka Lifestyle Products Starter Kit
6. Creative Angler Wooden Station
Karen Bennett lives in Chicago with her family, and when she’s not writing, she can usually be found practicing yoga or cheering on her kids at soccer games. She holds a master’s degree in journalism and a bachelor’s in English, and her writing has been published in various local newspapers, as well as “The Cheat Sheet,” “Illinois Legal Times,” and “USA Today.” She has also written search engine news page headlines and worked as a product manager for a digital marketing company. Her expertise is in literature, nonfiction, textbooks, home products, kids' games and toys, hardware, teaching accessories, and art materials.