Spawn Blog

As the calendar flips to a new year, it's the perfect time to reflect on how to elevate your fly tying game. Whether you're a seasoned tier or just starting, setting resolutions can keep your creativity flowing and your fly boxes brimming. Here are 10 fly tying New Year’s resolutions that will make 2025 your best year yet:

1. Organize Your Workspace

A clutter-free workspace is key to productive fly tying. Invest in organizers for hooks, materials, and tools. Knowing exactly where everything is will save time and inspire creativity.

How it helps: Less time spent searching for materials means more time tying and experimenting with new patterns.

2. Learn a New Technique Each Month

Dedicate each month to mastering a new tying technique, like dubbing loops, parachute posts, or epoxy work. By year-end, you’ll have 12 new skills to enhance your patterns.

How it helps: Broadening your skill set makes you a more versatile and confident tier, ready to tackle any pattern.

3. Focus on Quality Over Quantity

Instead of cranking out dozens of flies, slow down and perfect each one. Pay attention to proportions, durability, and symmetry.

How it helps: High-quality flies not only look better but fish better and last longer.

4. Tie for New Species

Expand your horizons by tying flies for species you’ve never targeted before, whether it’s carp, pike, or even saltwater species.

How it helps: Diversifying your fly box opens up exciting fishing opportunities and pushes your creativity.

5. Experiment with Materials

Challenge yourself to use unconventional materials or incorporate modern synthetics into your patterns. Try crafting flies from materials like Spawn Simi Seal or jig shanks.

How it helps: Unique materials often lead to innovative designs that can outfish traditional patterns.

6. Keep a Fly Tying Journal

Document the patterns you tie, including materials, techniques, and fishing results. Include notes on what works and what doesn’t. Soon we will offer journals here in the shop!

How it helps: A journal is a valuable resource for revisiting successful patterns and refining your craft.

7. Donate Flies to Local Programs

Support local fly fishing groups, veterans’ programs, or youth camps by donating a batch of hand-tied flies. This will also keep you on the vise once your box is full!

How it helps: Sharing your work fosters community, promotes the sport, and provides a sense of accomplishment.

8. Host or Join a Fly Tying Night

Gather fellow tiers for a monthly tying night, either in person or virtually. Share tips, swap materials, and bond over the craft.

How it helps: Collaboration sparks inspiration and helps build relationships within the fly fishing community.

9. Commit to Little Waste

It's hard but in 2025 get the most out of your materials whenever possible. Save a scrap that can be incorportated into another fly and push what can be done with a single package of materials. 

How it helps: Sustainability is always a good feeling and getting the most out of what you used your hard earned money on is also a positive!

10. Create a Signature Pattern

Design a fly that reflects your style and fishing philosophy. Test it extensively and perfect it over the year.

How it helps: A signature pattern is a legacy piece that showcases your skill and creativity. Who knows? It might become a favorite among your peers.

Setting these resolutions not only improves your fly tying skills but also deepens your connection to the sport. You might not commit to any of these or maybe you commit to all of them but by focusing on quality, creativity, and community, you’ll make 2025 a year to remember—both at the vise and on the water. Here’s to tight lines and beautifully tied flies!

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As the year winds to a close, we fishermen find ourselves reflecting on the journey 2024 has been. It’s more than just a tally of fish caught or days spent on the water; it’s about the stories, the lessons, and the moments that have left an indelible mark on our memories. For those of us in the Pacific Northwest, this year’s fishing season offered a mix of triumphs, challenges, and surprises.

The lifeblood of PNW fisheries, salmon and steelhead, painted an intriguing picture this year. Chinook runs in the Columbia River system came in stronger than anticipated, giving anglers a chance to revel in their pursuit of these prized fish. Coho numbers, particularly later in the season, surged with a vibrancy that brought energy to estuaries and river mouths. 

For many of us, these run sizes were more than just numbers—they were indicators of the health of the rivers we hold dear. Seeing strong returns reminded us of the importance of stewardship, while diminished runs pushed us to advocate harder for the preservation of these iconic fish.

A fishing season isn’t solely measured in fish landed. For some, it’s the excitement of targeting a new species. This year, I explored underutilized fisheries and got back to my love of catching sharks on the fly—a pursuit that demanded a respect for the power of these apex predators.

For others, 2024 was about honing skills, like mastering a new fly pattern or navigating a challenging stretch of river. I’ll always remember that cold morning when I landed a perfect sea-run cutthroat on Pete's Peach Bum pattern. It wasn’t the largest fish of the year, but the culmination of preparation, timing, and luck made it unforgettable.

The true beauty of a fishing season lies in its moments. Perhaps it was the laughter shared with friends as the sun dipped below the horizon, or the solitary satisfaction of being on the water before dawn, the world still and full of possibility. Maybe it was the sight of a salmon breaking the surface in a shimmering leap, or the connection forged with a stranger at the boat launch, swapping stories and tips.

One moment I’ll cherish from 2024 was standing in a rain-soaked estuary, watching my line cut through the gray water, knowing that the fish—and the landscape—were inextricably tied to something far larger than myself. Those are the moments that make a fisherman pause and feel gratitude for the privilege of experiencing nature so intimately.

Looking back on 2024, I’ve continued learning that a fishing year isn’t just about what you catch but what you take away. It’s about understanding the rhythms of the water, appreciating the resilience of the fish, and recognizing the delicate balance of ecosystems.

As anglers, we’re uniquely positioned to witness the changes in our environment, and with that comes a responsibility to advocate for its health. Whether it’s supporting habitat restoration, pushing for responsible hatchery practices, or simply sharing our passion with the next generation, each of us has a role to play.

As we look toward 2025, I’m filled with a mix of anticipation and determination. There are new waters to explore, new challenges to face, and new memories to make. I’m reminded that fishing isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way of life that teaches us patience, humility, and connection.

Here’s to another year of tight lines, memorable moments, and the enduring beauty of the Pacific Northwest. May we continue to learn from the water and the fish, and may we never stop striving to be better stewards of the places we love.

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As the year draws to a close, it’s incredible to reflect on the growth, achievements, and milestones Spawn Fly Fish has reached in 2024. From expanding our inventory to enhancing our customer experience, this year has been nothing short of transformative for our small, owner-operated fly shop.

Expanding Our Inventory for Fly Tiers and Jig Tiers

One of our most significant accomplishments this year was becoming the go-to shop in the Pacific Northwest for fly tying materials. We took bold steps to solidify that reputation by adding thousands of new tying products to our lineup, ensuring tiers of all kinds—fly and jig alike—have the tools they need to create innovative and effective patterns. For jig tiers, we broke down the essentials and provided tailored recommendations, from marabou to chenille and rabbit strips. This expansion reflects our commitment to supporting every tier in their creative pursuits.

Highlighting the Local Scene

Our dedication to local fisheries and the unique opportunities they present shone through in 2024. From educating anglers about the thrilling challenge of shark fishing off the Washington coast to advocating for expanded salmon and sea-run cutthroat opportunities in Willapa Bay tributaries, we’ve made it a priority to connect our community with underutilized fisheries. This focus not only fosters stewardship but also showcases the wealth of outdoor experiences in our own backyard.

Embracing Technology for Better Customer Experiences

In 2024, we implemented an AI-driven inventory management system to ensure that our shelves are always stocked with what our customers need most. This tool allows us to forecast demand and make data-driven decisions while maintaining the human touch that makes Spawn Fly Fish unique. With this system, we’re poised to offer deeper inventory and a seamless shopping experience, solidifying our place as the Pacific Northwest’s best fly shop.

Advocacy and Community Involvement

We’ve continued to work closely with local leaders and organizations to ensure that recreational fishing and outdoor activities remain a cornerstone of our community. Whether it was attending port meetings, advocating for new fishing opportunities, or volunteering at local events, we’ve deepened our roots in Ilwaco and the broader Pacific County community.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare for 2025, we’re excited to expand our kayak lineup with more recreational options, continue our efforts to spotlight local fisheries, and grow our ever-expanding inventory. We’re grateful for our customers, who make everything we do possible, and we look forward to another year of serving this incredible community.

Here’s to the adventures, the creativity, and the community that make Spawn Fly Fish special. Thank you for being part of our journey in 2024—we can’t wait to see what 2025 brings!

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Steelhead season is upon us in Washington, and for many anglers, this marks one of the most exciting and challenging times of the year. Steelhead are truly magical creatures, and targeting them offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and test your skills. While Spawn Fly Fish doesn’t heavily promote this fishery, we want to ensure you are well-prepared to make the most of this incredible season and become stewards of these remarkable fish.

Embrace the Weather

Let’s face it: steelhead season is generally miserable when it comes to weather. Sure, there are occasional nice days, but more often than not, you’ll face pouring rain, sideways wind, and bone-chilling temperatures. Success during this season hinges on being prepared, both mentally and physically.

Invest in Quality Gear:

• Rain Jackets and Waders: While you might get by with mediocre gear in the summer, steelhead season demands top-tier equipment. A high-quality rain jacket and durable waders can make the difference between an enjoyable outing and a miserable one. Being wet and cold for hours on end is no fun, so prioritize staying dry and warm.

• Layering: Dress in layers to adapt to fluctuating temperatures and conditions. Merino wool and synthetic base layers are excellent choices for wicking moisture and retaining heat.

Tactics for Success

Steelhead fishing offers a wide range of tactics, and flexibility is key to success. Whether you’re swinging flies with a spey rod or drifting a bead under an indicator with a single-hand rod, adaptability can make all the difference.

• Start with one method, but don’t hesitate to switch if it’s not producing results. For instance, if swinging a fly through a prime run isn’t getting any love, consider switching to a bead or a bushy stonefly pattern.

• Steelhead can be unpredictable, and many anglers have stories of finally hooking up after changing their approach. Don’t let stubbornness keep you from that magical moment.

Steelhead fishing is as much about the journey as it is about the catch. These fish will test your limits—mentally, physically, and emotionally. From the heart-pounding leaps as they shake off a fly mid-air to the triumphant moments of landing one in the net, every experience with these fish is unforgettable.

• Take pride in the entire process, even the failures. Each missed opportunity or fish lost mid-fight is a chance to learn and grow as an angler.

• Use this time to deepen your appreciation for steelhead and their habitats. Become an advocate for their conservation and the preservation of the rivers they call home.

Steelhead fishing isn’t easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. With the right gear, a flexible mindset, and an appreciation for both the successes and challenges, you’ll not only enjoy this fishery but also develop a profound respect for these incredible fish. Steelhead season will test you, but it also has the power to leave you with lifelong memories and a deeper connection to the natural world.

Get out there, embrace the rain, and make the most of this season. Let’s ensure that this fishery remains sustainable and magical for generations to come.

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We get it—life gets busy, the holidays sneak up on us, and suddenly you’re scrambling to find the perfect gift. Don’t panic! Spawn Fly Fish has you covered with thoughtful, unique, and hassle-free gift options that will make you look like the most prepared and thoughtful gift-giver out there.

Spawn Merch: A Local Favorite

If you’re in the area, swing by and check out our selection of shirts, hats, and hoodies. Spawn Fly Fish merchandise isn’t just about looking good—it’s about showing your love for fishing, the outdoors, and supporting a small, local business. Whether you’re buying for a fishing fanatic, a style-conscious friend, or someone who just loves to represent their favorite brands, Spawn merch makes a fantastic last-minute gift.

You’ll walk out the door with a tangible gift that’s ready to put under the tree, and trust us, nothing beats the satisfaction of handing over a perfectly wrapped present that was carefully chosen for someone special.

For Spawn Supporters from Afar: Gift Cards to the Rescue

Not everyone has the option to pop into our shop in person, and that’s okay! Spawn Fly Fish gift cards are the perfect solution for supporters near and far. Forget the stigma of last-minute gifting—a Spawn gift card says you support small businesses, and you’ve put real thought into getting something your loved one will actually use and enjoy.

With a gift card, they can choose exactly what they need—whether it’s tying materials, apparel, or something new they’ve been eyeing in our shop. It’s the gift that’s both practical and meaningful.

Why Spawn Fly Fish Gifts Are Always a Win

Here at Spawn Fly Fish, we believe in the value of every single product we offer. Our gifts don’t just end up gathering dust—they get used, appreciated, and remembered. Whether it’s a hoodie that becomes their go-to for chilly mornings or tying materials that make their next fishing trip a success, Spawn gifts have a way of standing out.

So, whether you’re grabbing a hoodie at the eleventh hour or clicking to send a digital gift card, rest easy knowing that you’re giving a gift that means something.

How to Shop

• In-Store: Visit us in Ilwaco to pick up shirts, hats, hoodies, or fly-tying essentials.

• Online: Purchase a Spawn Fly Fish gift card and have it delivered instantly to your inbox. It’s fast, easy, and guaranteed to please.

This holiday season, give the gift of Spawn Fly Fish—a gift that says you care about quality, thoughtfulness, and supporting a small business. Whether it’s last minute or planned well in advance, you can’t go wrong with Spawn.

Happy holidays and tight lines!

– The Spawn Fly Fish Team

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