I was just thinking, out of all the fly shops I have been to they are all a little different in some way. In a lot of ways they are the same. It got me to thinking in your opinion, what are the top 10 things you think every Fly Shop should carry?

at least 10 flies
cheap beer would be nice too

flies and beer huh lol

cheap beer, jameson, ginger ale (for the jameson), good flies not the chinese made [censored], tacos, red bull, an exclusive deal for me, hot wimmins workin there

Fly head cement

we are pushing the boundaries of "fly shop" and I like where it's pushing...

If is just takes beer and tacos to make a fly shop, then I've been in a whole lot more fly shops than I thought had been in.

Information.

So I take it that fishing is just a reason to drink beer and talk about women for you guys huh lol.......One thing I think every fly shop should have, is the ability to tie (on the spot) a custom fly for a customer. Some do this and it's great if you want to try different colors of a pattern and are not a pro at wrapping fuzz.

I agree the information fly shops do provide is limited and at least a few weeks old.

And b.s. and a handful of flies!

Probably the best idea I have seen yet. Even better than tacos.

A good pair of nippers and forceps should be on the list.

I have switched to the forceps/scissors combo pretty much the only tool I carry now.

Good question!

Two lists -- The Obvious Ten (aka the "Duh" list) and The Distinctive Ten (what the better shops would carry)

The Obvious Ten:

1. Fly rods
2. Fly reels
3. Fly lines
4. Backing
5. Leaders
6. Tippet material
7. Flies
8. Boots
9. Waders
10. Vests or packs


The Distinctive Ten:

1. Local maps or books on fly fishing hot spots
2. Locally tied and focused flies
3. Similar lists/maps and flies for adventure travel (e.g., Alaska)
4. Instructional videos or DVDs
5. Full range of tying materials and equipment
6. Hatch charts or similar guides to seasonal fishing
7. Safety gear (sun screen, inflatable vests, wading staffs, buffs, gloves)
8. Fly fishing oriented recreational reading or viewing (books and DVDs)
9. Expert advice dispensed in a non-patronizing way
10. Staff who emanate the enjoyment of fly fishing and are willing to share their knowledge and enthusiasm.

Just my thoughts on the topic. Yours?