International Fly Tying Symposium 2026

IFTS has a new town and a new venue — the Lancaster, PA Convention Center! Previously held in Somerset, NJ, the Hilton location that hosted the event is closing, hence the new digs. From the IFTS website: “Join us in November for our 35th Anniversary International Fly Tying Symposium. This year’s Symposium will be held at the Lancaster County Convention Center, Lancaster, PA. The weekend will be full of seminars, classes and fly tiers with many overseas artists demonstrating and lecturing.” So mark Saturday, November 21 and Sunday, November 22 on your calendars.

Fly tying is serious business, especially if you want to learn from some of the world’s best tyers. On the other hand, fly tying is a hoot, as Barry Ord Clarke, Tim Cammisa, and the guy in the middle demonstrate.

I realize this new location will put the show out of practical reach for many of you in New England; you’ll have to make the call on whether or not to drive the new distance. I can tell you that this is one of my favorite shows, and the location is excellent. I’ll have a tying table and will be doing a seminar on wet flies, day/time TBD. I hope to see you there!

If you ordered the Fly Fishing Guide to the Farmington River through an outside vendor, it should start shipping tomorrow. Yeeeee-hawww!!!! I’ve changed my tune a wee bit on selling copies directly to you; if you would prefer to get a signed, inscribed copy from me, you still can. You’ll find out how if you click here.

I’m pleased to announce that once again, Tony Lolli has featured me in his At the Vise column in On The Water magazine. The format has shifted a bit; instead of a “guide flies” focus, it’s more of a profile, and it also features the book.

You know that guy! *On The Water* is a terrific magazine with excellent photography and printed on a paper stock that feels good in your hands. Well worth seeking out. There’s an digital version, too. Many thanks to Tony for letting me play again.

Finally, the International Fly Tying Symposium has moved from Somerset, NJ, to Lancaster, PA. Lancaster is a ~most excellent~ space — it’s where they hold the Fly Fishing Show. This year’s IFTS is November 21-22. More details to come!