Bill Swaps are the way you learn. Especially those of you who don't have a fly shop near by. I'm surrounded by fly shops and amazing tyers and when I see all the new products on the market I'm still confused until I see how someone else uses them. Then I get all kinds of ideas. That is what fly swaps are all about. There are people on this list that are kind enough to swap with me when I felt bad that I couldn't tie my flies as well. I learned from them and for that I am grateful that they would swap with me. I once asked a tyer to send me one of the Green Highlander tube flies he was tying for a swap and he was kind enough to swap with me on the side so I could see how it was done. That fly helped me a great deal. One day I hope there is a fly of mine that he would be honored to get. When I needed help with my trout flies Joyce was kind enough to send me some of hers. There are more than a few pros on this list that are more than happy to share their knowledge. That is what makes this list special. I swapped a few of my tube flies now at Somerset with some pretty nice tyers so I could get more great ideas. I still don't think mine measured up to theirs but WOW what an honor that they would swap flies with me. Cheers, Deb
-----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Bill Higdon Sent: Saturday, November 20, 2004 7:37 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: [VFB] Perpetual Swap / to All Swappers Maybe the swaps should be classified as expert, novice, or beginner. I don't think running to the fly shop to purchase flies is in the sprit of a swap. I was of the understanding that swaps were a good way for beginners to get some experience. I was not involved this swap but I'm very surprised at the comments. Are you suggesting that beginners not participate in swaps until they reach a certain skill level? It seems to me, this would discourage most new comers from participating. I think we might have our noses a little to high in the air. Swaps should be fun, first and foremost. Not a test, not an art exhibit. This is just fishing.............and that's all it is. Bill Higdon
