how to put flies in a fly box

3 min read 07-02-2025

Introduction

So you've tied some beautiful flies, and now you need to store them properly. A fly box is essential for keeping your flies organized, protected, and ready for your next fishing trip. But simply tossing them in isn't enough. This guide will show you the best ways to organize and store your flies in a fly box, ensuring they stay in top condition for years to come. Knowing how to properly put flies in a fly box will save you frustration and keep your precious creations safe.

Choosing the Right Fly Box

Before we dive into putting flies in your box, let's talk about choosing the right box. The ideal fly box depends on your needs and the types of flies you're storing.

Types of Fly Boxes:

Foam boxes: These are the most common type, offering a soft, protective surface for your flies. Foam inserts allow you to customize the arrangement.
Magnetic boxes: These boxes use magnets to hold the flies in place, offering excellent protection and a sleek design. They’re often more expensive.
Clear plastic boxes: These allow for easy viewing of your fly collection, making it simpler to find what you need quickly. However, they're usually less protective than foam or magnetic boxes.
Waterproof boxes: Essential for keeping your flies dry in wet conditions, especially if fishing in rain or near water.

Consider the size and number of compartments needed to accommodate your fly collection. Start with a box that can grow with your collection but isn't unnecessarily large when starting out.

Organizing Your Flies: A Methodical Approach

Proper organization is key. This prevents damage and ensures easy retrieval of specific flies.

Categorization Strategies:

By Fly Type: Group similar flies together (dry flies, nymphs, streamers, etc.). This makes selection for a specific fishing situation much easier.
By Size: Arrange flies by hook size within each fly type category. This allows you to quickly find a fly of the appropriate size for the conditions.
By Color: Organize flies by color within each size and type. This is particularly helpful for matching hatches.

Using these strategies, or a combination thereof, will greatly improve the efficiency of your fly selection process.

Using Foam Inserts Effectively:

Most foam boxes come with removable foam inserts. You can further customize the organization with this method:

Creating Slots: Use scissors, a razor blade (carefully!), or a heated tool to create slots in the foam that perfectly fit your flies. Avoid making the slots too tight.
Properly Inserting Flies: Gently push each fly into its designated slot, ensuring it's secure but not overly compressed. Avoid damaging the delicate materials of the fly.
Protecting Delicate Flies: For particularly delicate flies, consider using small pieces of foam or protective sleeves to cushion them within the slots.