The Benefits of Using Wooden Fly Boxes for Fly Fishing

The Benefits of Wooden Fly Boxes for Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is a beloved pastime for many anglers. The grace and skill required to properly cast a fly line makes it a rewarding activity. Of course, no fly fisherman can head out to the river without the proper gear. One of the most important pieces of equipment is a fly box to store flies neatly and securely.

In the early days of fly fishing, most anglers used metal fly boxes. However, wooden fly boxes have become increasingly popular over the years. Wood offers some distinct advantages over metal when it comes to storing flies. Here is a look at why every fly fisherman should have a wooden fly box or two in their collection.

The Natural Look of Wood

One of the best things about wooden fly boxes is that they blend right in with nature. When you are out on the river, you want your gear to be as unobtrusive as possible. A metal fly box can reflect light and stick out. However, a wooden box has a natural, subdued look.

The natural appeal of wood also makes your flies look more attractive in the box. Instead of a sterile metal background, the colors and textures of your flies pop against the warm wood.

Superior Protection for Flies

Wood also offers some protective benefits for your flies. Metal boxes can allow moisture to seep in, which can cause rust on hooks. Wood does not retain moisture, so it helps keep your flies dry.

The materials of wooden boxes also cushion flies better during transport. Hits and bumps are less likely to crush or damage flies stored in wood over metal. The rigid structure of quality wooden boxes also resists bending and warping.

More Options for Customization

Wooden fly boxes allow for more customization options. You can find wooden boxes made from different species of trees. Popular picks include cedar, oak, walnut, and maple. The different wood grains provide distinct looks. You can also have a box laser engraved for a personalized touch.

Some anglers also like to handmake their own wooden fly boxes. This allows complete control over the wood selection, size, compartment layout, and other design elements. Handmade boxes make great gifts as well.

Important Features to Consider

If you are in the market for a new wooden fly box, there are a few key features to evaluate:

Size

First, consider the size of box that makes sense for your needs. How many flies do you normally carry? Make sure to account for future growth too. A box that fits 100 flies today might not meet your needs in a year or two if you accumulate more. Strike a balance between portability and capacity.

Compartments

The layout and size of compartments is also important. You want compartments large enough to accommodate bigger streamer flies securely. However, you also want small compartments for organizing different dry fly patterns. Look for a box with a good assortment of compartment sizes.

Magnetic Closure

A strong magnetic closure is a must. It will keep your box securely closed while hiking or wading across streams. However, you want it to be easy to open and access flies with one hand when actively fishing.

Durable Construction

Check that the wood is thick and durable, with strong box joints. Make sure any hinges, hasps, or other hardware are made from quality rust-resistant materials. A durable finish will also help protect the exterior of the box.

Floats

Many wooden fly boxes come equipped with foam or other floats. This prevents the box from sinking if accidentally dropped overboard. For fishing small creeks, a floating box can drift downstream right to you if it goes for an unexpected swim.

Affordability

With the range of options available today, you can find excellent wooden fly boxes at very reasonable prices. Avoid overpaying just for fancy graphics or boutique branding. Seek out high-quality construction and materials while staying budget-conscious.

Caring for Your Wooden Fly Box

A wooden fly box is built to last. But with proper care, you can get years or even decades of faithful service from a quality box.

Always let your fly box dry out completely before storing it. Leaving wet flies or a damp interior can lead to mold, mildew, and other damage over time. Some anglers like to place their boxes in zippered mesh bags or leave them open when not in use.

Check any closing mechanisms regularly. Clean out dirt, lubricate hinges, and ensure hasps and magnets function tightly. Doing so prevents wear and tear that can allow the accidental release of flies into the river.

Periodically apply a fresh coat of protective finish to the box’s exterior. This maintains the wood’s water resistance and luster. Fishing takes a toll on even the best fly box finishes.

Do not leave your flies in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. The UV rays can damage and fade materials. Storing your box in a pack or vest pocket will provide shade when not actively selecting flies.

With proper care, a quality wooden fly box should serve every fly fisher well for many seasons on the water. The right box makes time spent chasing trout, bass, and other species even more enriching.

Top Wooden Fly Boxes on the Market

Here are some of the top wooden fly boxes currently available from quality brands:

Waterworks-Lamson Fly Box

The Waterworks-Lamson fly box has a classic design crafted from rich walnut with stainless steel hardware. Neodymium rare earth magnets provide a secure closure. Large and medium compartments accommodate a wide range of fly sizes.

Orvis Solid Wood Fly Box

This solid oak fly box from Orvis provides 20 micro-suede lined compartments sized for a range of flies. The box floats and has a magnetic lid. Orvis crafts these boxes in the United States.

Fishpond Colorado Cedar Fly Box

Fishpond uses aromatic cedar to craft these handmade fly boxes. The wood's natural oils repel moisture and keep flies dry. Rare earth magnets secure the latchless lids.

Simms Dry Creek Fly Box

The Simms Dry Creek box features an oiled cedar exterior and maple lining. This durable box includes sections designed to hold small dry flies as well as larger streamers. The innovative latch design provides a secure hold.

Orvis Safe Passage Fly Box

This innovative Orvis fly box is perfect for the angler who has lost one too many flies. Patented Safe Passage material in the lid allows flies to penetrate if the box comes open but keeps them contained if it closes again.

In Conclusion

Wooden fly boxes have stood the test of time as a top choice for keeping flies organized, protected, and easy to access on the water. With quality craftsmanship and smart design features, the top boxes on the market today meet the needs of any fly fisher.

A good wooden fly box deserves a place in every angler’s kit. With the right box by your side, you can focus on the fishing at hand. The fish will not know what hit them when you pull out the perfect fly at just the right moment thanks to your handy wooden companion.

FAQs

Why choose a wooden over a metal fly box?

Wood protects flies better than metal. The materials cushion flies from damage. Wood also resists bending and moisture better than metal. The natural look of wood blends into the fishing environment better as well.

What features should you look for in a wooden fly box?

Prioritize a strong magnetic closure, durable hinges, a variety of compartment sizes, foam floats, and quality materials like oak, cedar, or maple. The box should also fit your desired fly capacity.

How do you care for a wooden fly box?

Always let the box fully dry out after use before storage. Regularly apply protective finish to the exterior wood. Store the box out of direct sunlight when not in use. Lubricate hinges and clean latch mechanisms as needed.

Why can wood fly boxes float?

Many wooden fly boxes include foam inserts that provide flotation. This allows the box to float temporarily if accidentally dropped in the water while wading.

What are some top wooden fly box brands?

Some top options come from respected fly fishing brands like Orvis, Simms, Lamson, Fishpond, and Sage. However, smaller custom box makers also offer excellent wooden boxes.