Working calculators
Hook Size by Fly PatternRight hook size and style for the fly you\'re tying. Cost Per Fly CalculatorWhat home-tied flies actually cost vs store-bought.Plain note about money: Some links are affiliate (eBay Partner Network). Small commission, doesn't change your price.
Gear actually worth buying
Smart eBay searches we'd start with ourselves. We earn a small commission on qualifying sales through these links; the price you pay is the same whether you use them or go direct to eBay. Full disclosure.
Rotary fly tying viseRenzetti Traveler and Nor-vise are the two rotary vises people stop replacing. Pedestal base over C-clamp unless you travel.
Dry fly hackle capeWhiting Farms 100-pack is the honest starting point. A good rooster cape lasts years and covers most dry fly patterns.
Natural hair (elk, deer, bucktail)Elk hair for Caddis patterns; deer body hair for Comparaduns; bucktail for streamers. Natural shades first, dyed second.
Tying thread (Uni-Thread 6/0)Uni-Thread 6/0 is the universal workhorse. Get black, olive, tan, and red to cover 80% of patterns you'll tie.
Dubbing material setSuperfine dry fly dubbing for the body, rabbit dubbing for nymphs, Ice Dub for streamers. A sampler pack covers most needs.