Behind the Vise Update: Trends We Are Already Seeing Three Weeks In

The Overview

Three 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 goal has always been simple: to celebrate the craft, amplify the stories of tiers working at their kitchen tables, and ensure that fly tying remains accessible and alive for the next generation.

Three Weeks In: What We’re Seeing

The first wave of applications has offered a remarkable look at the people who make up today’s fly-tying community. While each applicant’s story is unique, several clear themes have emerged:

• Tying as more than a hobby — For many, fly tying is not just about filling fly boxes. It’s a form of therapy, a source of mental clarity, and a creative outlet that builds resilience and connection.

• A new generation of tyers — A significant number of applicants are in their first one to three years of tying, signaling fresh growth in the community and a hunger to learn.

• Entrepreneurial spirit — From side hustles to dreams of opening shops, many applicants are already thinking about how to turn their craft into sustainable businesses.

• Community and legacy — Applicants repeatedly described tying as a bridge: a way to honor family legacies, teach kids, or bring friends together. Several veterans and mentors emphasized the healing and unifying power of the vise.

• Overwhelming need for support — The most common requests by far are for materials, tools, and industry connections. This reinforces our mission to connect everyday tyers with the resources and recognition they need to thrive.

Key Stats

Gender

• Men — 71%

• Women — 29%

Experience

• 1–3 years — 35%

• Less than 1 year — 26%

• 5+ years — 24%

• 3–5 years — 15%

Requested Support (Overlapping Results)

• Materials — 85%

• Industry Connections — 82%

• Exposure / Promotion — 59%

• Tools — 56%

• Business Help — 44%

• Financial Help — 29%

Fish Mentioned By Fly Type (Normalized to 100%)

• Trout — 42%

• Bass — 15%

• Saltwater (general) — 10%

• Panfish — 6%

• Steelhead — 4%

• Musky — 3%

• Salmon — 3%

• Other (1–2% each): Striper, Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Rockfish, Tarpon, Permit, Bonefish, Fluke, Carp, Arctic Grayling, Predator, Streamers

Motivations (Why They Tie)

• Stress relief / mental health & flow state — 27%

• Creativity & artistic outlet — 24%

• Family / friend connections — 18%

• Deeper connection to fly fishing — 15%

• Functional / personal achievement — 15%

Long-Term Goals

• Selling more flies / business growth — 27%

• Open shop / entrepreneurship — 18%

• Community building & teaching — 18%

• Signature tyer / bulk supplier — 12%

• Using tying as therapy / helping others — 12%

• Media, content creation, brand expansion — 12%

One Week Left

Applications for this first round close in just one week (On August 31st). Every story we receive helps show that this craft is alive, diverse, and worth investing in. Whether you’re new to tying or have years of experience, this is your chance to be part of the first Behind the Vise support boxes.

If you haven’t applied yet, now’s the time. It’s free, it’s simple, and it’s the start of something bigger.

[Apply Now →]