Introducing Behind the Vise: A New Chapter for American Fly Tyers

What Is Behind the Vise?

Behind the Vise is a grassroots initiative launched by The Fly Box LLC to support American-based fly tyers. This initiative is built to serve the everyday makers—the ones tying at kitchen tables, in garages, and from small shops across the country. Behind the Vise is about amplifying voices that often go unheard, providing visibility, community, and material support to those keeping the art of American fly tying alive.

This is not just a feature series. Behind the Vise works in three parts: donors help supply materials and financial support, tyers apply through a free quarterly form, and a small cohort is selected to receive tailored assistance and exposure. Selected tyers are featured in the Casts That Care newsletter and on social platforms, with added support when available through gear, materials, or direct aid.

Why It Matters

Behind the Vise was created in response to an imbalance. Over 85 percent of the world’s commercial fly production happens overseas. At the same time, only 10 to 15 percent of American anglers tie their own flies. That leaves a large, often invisible group of domestic tyers doing the work behind the curtain—people whose creativity, talent, and hustle deserve far more recognition and support than they receive.

Behind the Vise aims to change that. By offering a platform and a helping hand, it encourages fly tyers to continue creating without burning out or fading into obscurity. This initiative is about meaningful impact at the individual level. It’s about offering more than applause—it’s about providing momentum.

“You can get cheap. You can get quality. You can get American-made. But rarely all three. Behind the Vise is asking: Why not?”— Kevin Wolfe, Founder of The Fly Box LLC

How It Works

From Behind The Vise

Donate: Backers—whether brands, shops, or individuals—contribute funds or gear to the Behind the Vise program. These donations go directly toward providing support to selected fly tyers.

Apply: American-based tyers fill out a short, no-fee application form. They share who they are, what they tie, and how support could help them most. Each quarter opens a new round of applications.

Select and Support: A handful of applicants are selected each quarter. Those chosen are promoted across The Fly Box channels, featured in the newsletter, and receive direct material or financial assistance as resources allow.

The Numbers

• 85 percent of commercial fly production is now overseas

• Only 10 to 15 percent of American anglers tie their own flies

• Over 2,000 American tyers are actively working to turn their craft into a career

These numbers reflect a clear gap. Behind the Vise exists to help close it.

Who Can Apply

Anyone based in the United States who ties flies is welcome to apply. This includes beginners, part-time tyers, hobbyists, and professionals. There is no fee to apply, and each application round lasts one month.

Applications are reviewed throughout the open period, and selections are made based on need, story, and vision.

Get Involved

If you are a fly tyer, visit theflyboxllc.com to apply. If you are a brand or individual looking to support, you can contribute to the Behind the Vise fund, donate gear, or simply share the story with your community.

Additionally, you can shop Behind the Vise branded merchandise. Half of all proceeds go directly into the Behind the Vise fund to support American fly tyers.

This is more than a campaign. It is a commitment to community, to craftsmanship, and to making sure that those behind the vise are seen, supported, and celebrated.

Let’s keep tying, together.