Behind the Vise Update: By the Numbers — One Day Left to Apply

The Overview

Four weeks ago, we launched Behind the Vise — a grassroots initiative created to support American fly tyers through exposure, community, and, when possible, real material support. The mission remains simple: celebrate the craft, amplify the voices of tyers working at their kitchen tables, and ensure that fly tying stays accessible and alive for the next generation.

One Day Left: What the Numbers Tell Us

With just one day left to apply, the applicant pool already offers a remarkable snapshot of today’s fly-tying community. While each story is unique, some clear themes are emerging:

• Tying as therapy and creativity — Many applicants describe the vise as a place of focus, stress relief, and connection.

• New blood at the vise — A majority of tyers are in their first few years, showing fresh growth and enthusiasm.

• Entrepreneurial drive — More than half are already selling flies or exploring business opportunities.

• Need for resources — The strongest requests remain for materials, industry connections, and promotion — reinforcing exactly why Behind the Vise exists.

Key Stats

Experience

1–3 years: 38%

Less than 1 year: 21%

3–5 years: 17%

5+ years: 24%

Selling Status

• Currently selling: 55%

• Not yet selling: 45%

Requested Support (Overlapping Results)

States Represented

Applicants come from 26 different states, with especially strong representation from Colorado, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Oregon.

One Day Left

Applications for this first round close tomorrow, August 31st. Every submission adds another voice to the bigger picture of who today’s fly tyers are — diverse, passionate, and eager to grow.

Whether you’ve been tying for a few months or a few decades, this is your last chance to be part of the very first Behind the Vise round!

APPLY NOW