Making room
for the water.

Tonight I tied three caddis larvae. They’re ugly, inconsistent, and tied on hooks that are too big. But they’re three flies I sat down and made, and that feels like a place to start.

I was working toward a hare’s-fur caddis larva. I have a hare’s mask, but used the synthetic dubbing I already had. I’m still figuring out bobbin pressure and thread tension. Right now, getting three flies to look like they belong together is enough of a challenge.

I’ve been thinking about dubbing wax and a dubbing-loop twister. I’ve also wondered about a coffee grinder for preparing hair. Those are things I’m considering, not methods I’ve worked out or advice I’m ready to give. A few supplies might help, but I need more practice at the vise.

The workbench needs attention, too. Hooks, beads, eyes, and hackle are scattered through ziplock bags. Finding what I need is part of the job before I even start tying. That’s one reason I’m working on a tying station: I want the materials organized and easier to reach.

The other reason is seeing what I’m doing. I need better contrast behind the fly and better lighting on the work. The station is still a prototype. For now, I’m trying to make a place where I can see the thread, find the materials, and sit down to tie.

I was introduced to fly fishing six or seven years ago and used to find myself at the river often. Then kids, work, and life filled more of the calendar. I still love it. I want more time for it, something I can enjoy with my kids, and something of my own to build. My Christian faith is part of that story, too.

That’s where Found Water comes from. I’m not a professional angler or an experienced commercial fly tier. I’m learning, making things, and trying to give this part of my life some room again.

Tomorrow’s goal is five flies, a small supply order, and another chance to improve. Midges are next on my list for a winter Guadalupe box. I’ll share what I try and how it goes, including the flies that don’t come out the way I hoped.