Welcome to Fly Swap Central ! Fly swaps are a very unique
a way for tyers from around many different parts of the country, or even
the
globe, to exchange their patterns first hand. Here you will be able
to sign up for a swap, or even start your own. If you have never
participated in a fly swap, and would like to know more, please read the
FAQ below.
------------------------General Fly Swap FAQ------------------------
How does a fly swap work?
A fly swap is very simple. One person starts the fly swap, thus making
themselves the swap organizer. A swap can be started through the
Online Fly Tyer database above. Once the swap has been created, other
tyers from around the globe can sign up for the swap through the Online Fly
Tyer database. Depending on how many tyers join prior to the sign up
deadline will determine how many flies each participant will have to tie.
When all of the signing up has ended, the participants tie the required
amount of flies and send them to the swap organizer. The swap organizer
will wait until all flies have been received, within a reasonable amount of
time, and will then forward each participant one of each fly tied, including
one of their own. This way tyers have a chance to get familiar with
many new patterns, as well as restock that fly box for the upcoming season.
How long does a fly swap last?
A fly swap's timeline is generally measured in stages. The first stage
is the sign up stage. The swap organizer may allow anywhere between a
single week, and 4 weeks for others to join their swap. The next stage
is the tying stage. Agent the swap organizer determines the duration
of this stage. The tying stage is usually longer for larger swaps in
order to give everyone a change to get their flies done. The third and
final stage of a fly swap is the shipping/receiving stage. The swap
organizer has to wait until all of the flies arrive, then sort, repackage
and mail them out again. Depending on the regional diversity of the
tyers, the shipping / receiving stage can take up to 2 weeks. All
together a swap can take as little as 2 or 3 weeks, but can take as long as
a month and a half. A wait well worth it!
Is a fly swap free?
Yes! A fly swap is completely free. The only fees which a tyer
may incur are shipping and handling charges to and from the swap organizer.
These charges are minimal as flies are fairly easy to ship.
Can beginners join?
Absolutely! New fly tyers are especially encouraged to join a fly
swap. By participating, new tyers will get the experience of seeing
other patterns first hand, as well as get valuable practice tying flies.
How do I sign up?
If you are interested in joining a swap, please click on the "View
current fly swaps" link above. Fly swaps are often theme oriented,
and the Online Fly Tyer database will likely have many different fly swaps
going on simultaneously. If you have any further questions about fly swaps,
please feel free to use our feedback form. Happy tying! |
