What a great day this would have been to be out on the river. Sixty one degree’s this afternoon, bright and sunny. At least I was able to make it to the Fort Drum chapter of PHWFF(Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing) meeting for some lessons on tying flies that we will be using for a trip to Mills Creek in Sackets Harbor, New York in April. I was advised by Jim to continue using the smaller egg patterns until the water temperature is a lot warmer. The first one we tied today was the Mickey Finn. I like this fly because of it’s simplicity and I can tie alot of them in a short amount of time. I may go back and dress a few of them with eyes. Here is a picture of my try at tying this fly. I kept it slim due to the fact that I usually bulk them up too 
much.
The second fly we worked on is a soft hackle, orange partridge. It is fun to tie, but tricky when working with hooks that small. I broke the thread twice.
We ended the session with a Purple Face Emerger. 
Jim explained the purpose of this fly was to appear crippled or wounded to the fish. The fish would naturally go after the easier target. He also said this was a good producer for use on the Salmon River in New York for this time of year.
I am anxiously waiting for Sunday so I can get out and try these flies along with the ones from last week, as well as some of my own creations. My addiction to tying is as strong as my passion for fishing. I find it really relaxes me and is very exciting to catch a fish on something I made.
“When Life Gets Hectic, Grab a Fly Rod”
