Bob Erickson lives in Vermont, but has fallen in love with Alaska. Specifically, Bristol Bay, Alaska. He first visited for a float trip in 2010, and since has gone back every year chasing char, salmon, and rainbow trout. Because of this borderline obsession with Bristol Bay fishing, Bob has expanded his fly tying repertoire from Wooly Buggers to flies like the Megawatt and Gurgler.
Bob is drawn to fly fishing because of the solitude, adventure, and chasing native species. He began tying when he was young, but has perfected his work by tying big meaty flies, with Alaskan salmon and trout in mind.
Fly tying has been around for a while. When were your interests peaked?
I have kind of always tied, but my interests were initially peaked because I wanted to catch a trout on a fly I tied myself. My interests really took off following my first trip to Alaska, a Bristol Bay float trip in 2010. I have done at least one Bristol bay trip annually ever since, and now it’s strictly DIY!
What are some of the fish species you tie flies for?
Brook trout back east and Dolly Varden char, Rainbow Trout, and Coho Salmon in Alaska.
What was your first fishing experience/When did you begin fly fishing?
I began fly fishing in my early 20’s.
What is currently on your vise?
The Megawatt, a small flesh fly, and an STS leech (salmon – trout – steelhead).
Tell us about any flies that you’ve designed yourself.
There is no such thing as an original in fly tying, but innovative! My innovative flies are the Megawatt and Gurgler.
What is it that draws you to fly fishing and fly tying?
Alaska. Baxter State Park in Maine. Solitude and adventure. Chasing native species.
What are some favorite fly tying resources that you direct others to?
Alaska Fly Fishing Goods and Spawn Fly Fish.
What was the first fly pattern you tied?
The Wooly Bugger.
Is there a fly style that you are still interested in learning about?
Not really…
What advice would you give to someone thinking about beginning fly tying?
Don’t get into it thinking you’ll save money!
What’s the first fly you typically recommend a beginner to learn to tie?
Hands down, the Wooly Bugger.
Favorite and least favorite thing about tying flies?
Experiment on flies, sharing them with friends, and seeing others catch fish on flies you’ve tied.
What fly tying technique took you the longest to learn?
Effective use of the dubbing loop! Opened up a new world!
Let’s talk about fly tying equipment and materials:
Tell us about your scissors. Do you use a generic brand or specific style, and why?
A simple pair of Dr. Slick scissors, they work well for fine work and rough work.
What about bobbins: tension or no tension?
Tension bobbin.
Your tying vise is practically sacred. What is your go-to, and why? How many did you try before deciding this was your favorite?
I tie on a Peak vise. It is simple, and a true workhorse. 15 years of dependable service!
Where do you source your fly-tying supplies? Why do you choose these resources over others? (okay to mention more than one resource)
Alaska Fly Fishing Goods, Spawn Fly Fishing
Do you have a particular type of hackle that you prefer over others?
I really don’t use traditional hackles much.
Do you prefer synthetic or natural materials when you use it? (dubbing, hackle, bucktail, etc.)
There is a time and a place for both! Color and movement is very important.
What brand of hooks do you prefer to tie on?
Ahex, they are strong, I have never had a failure, and they have a unique design.
What is your preference in head cement and resin?
Loon thin and UV bench light.
Let’s talk about thread… How should a tier approach choosing the right thread for their fly?
Veevus 140 denier, because it is strong and has a fine diameter.
What’s the one fly tying material you can’t live without? What’s so special about it?
Brushes! The color, movement and ease of use is unbeatable. H2O is my current favorite.
Do you tie for personal use, or do you sell your flies?
Both. I share with raft-mates! I used to tie for a couple of lodges and fly shops in Alaska, but I mostly tie for myself and my buddies now.
What is your favorite fly pattern to tie? What is the intended species for the fly?
The Megawatt!! I tie it mostly for Coho salmon, but big char and rainbows will eat it, too.
Where can people find your work? (Retail store, online store, social media handles, etc)
Facebook: Alaska Signature Flies