FFIM

I will take the time to strip the chewed materials from the piles of used flies..
Seems every tying season I say that...instead I buy new hooks and go at it
Is there a easy way? I do not use any cement on my dry flies or emergers, at least the smaller sizes. Surely it would save me a little cash and maybe a trip to the shop. I have wanted to send this question out for a few weeks now. After cleaning out fly boxes and taking inventory I have quite a few boxes of ragged flies and if I add them to the years past its getting a little crazy. What are you guys doing?

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K- FLY

K.......

I’m not sure there’s an “easy” way to strip the materials off old flies, but a razor blade takes care of that chore fairly easily.

Unless you’re using really premium hooks (e.g. Tiemco......they’re expensive) I’d rather just donate my old flies to any kids program around you and tie up new flies. A good excuse as any that you need new flies.

Dave M

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"Fish the West every year. Life is short; and you'll be dead a long time." Chris Hutchins--2009

Kennebec, I think you're chasing your tail trying to untie flies to recycle hooks. I regularly clip hook eyes off to get a bead back but the time spent trying to "clean" the hook off would be better spent tying new flies.

I strip hooks quite often. At times I'll have one I forget to wrap the rib or didn't like the look or old flies or ones I've plucked out of the trees. With a razor blade takes about as much time as putting a bead on and starting your thread. One slice flat against the hook and pull material down opposite cut. Heavy wire may take a bit more time. I clamp them in my vise to steady the fly and keep blood loss to a minimum.

Ron

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The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of something that is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.

Sir John Buchan

What he said!
I’m glad I saw this thread, because I have a bunch of hooks to salvage before I order more.

Thanks
Looks like we are all in the same boat with our old flies...

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K- FLY