I began flyfishing at age eight and tying trout and salmon flies by the time I was ten. The salmon flies I tied to fish with were, and still are, hairwing patterns. I remember seeing pictures of fully dressed flies for the first time in an old John Veniard book belonging to my grandfather Ron Webb. I was amazed by their complexity and beauty.

It was about twelve years ago that I began experimenting with classic patterns; I had been tying hairwing flies for over ten years, and I guess I just wanted tie something more challenging. I didn't have much success at first, but eventually I learned to handle the materials better and was able to create nicer looking flies. I have tied numerous patterns of my own design but I think I get more satisfaction from tying the old classics.

There is something about a fully dressed Green Highlander or Jock Scott that gives me a sense of satisfaction that I don't quite get from a newly created fly. I guess it's just the history and tradition behind those old flies which make them special, and I am truly honoured to be a part of this presentation site, celebrating their beauty and our craft.

Thanks,

Paul Webb

Editors Note: Paul Webb has an outstanding web page cleverlly called "The Webb page" where you can view many more of his superbly tied salmon flies such as the Amherst Belle, the Childers, and the Shanara. Once again this is a must see site if you are looking for the best in classic salmon flies. Thanks Paul.