Reflections on a New Time Killer

     After spending a semester tying flies, I can say this new occupation has become my new hobby. I have learned that the challenge associated with tying flies keeps me engaged. Before the chance came, I just viewed it as an easy occupation. It is not easy. It takes time, and imagination to accomplish and not become bored and quit. 

    This week and over the break I tied many new flies. most looked like the first picture. The last one I tied was with plastic craft pieces to mimic a minnow. I will be testing it at Henry's lake in December underneath the ice. Let's hope that the fish are loving the idea of eating a giant minnow. 

    I believe that this new occupation is a beneficial one. It allows me to keep my hands busy when I'm bored and refrain from doing wasteful activities. With all the use of my vise, i realized it broke during one of my flies. The top now freely spins around and comes off. I plan on trying to get a new one around Christmas time. My knowledge in tying flies has improved dramatically. The thought has entered my mind of starting a fly tying business on the side. But it will ultimately come down to my wife and her opinion. That is what being a couple is. 

    The article that stood out to me the most was the one on Flow. I had not achieved a sense of it until I read about it. After this, it is easy to become in the state because I focus on trying to perfect my wraps.  

    I would suggest future MOT students choose an occupation that is interesting to them. One that they know will be something they can actually use. Most of the others in the program I have talked to say they will not pursue their occupations. I think new students need to choose one that they are interested in, but never committed to.