Fly Tying Talk, with Charlie Craven

I have been meaning to get Charlie Craven [37:41] of Charlie's Fly Box in Denver on the podcast for quite some time and we finally connected. Charlie talks about what new materials and tools excite him and also how to approach the topic of assembling essential materials for the beginning fly tier. We also explore some other topics as only a couple of geeky fly tiers can when given the chance. In the Fly Box this week, we have some great questions and tips from listeners, including: I have been using a clear floating line for sight fishing for striped bass but noticed the fish sometimes shy away from the fly. Do you think this is because the clear line reflects too much sunlight? A tip from a listener on another way of taking fishing photos without risking losing your valuable smartphone in the water. My leader lands in a pile when I am casting. But you say that sometimes you want your leader to land in loose coils. Is it too much to expect my leader to fully straighten? Advice from bamboo rod guru Shawn Brillon on cleaning cork grips. I was using mouse flies at night and got strikes but could not connect. What did I do wrong? Is it true that you can shine a red flashlight at night to see your fly because the fish won't notice it? Is it worth it to go from a mid-priced fly-tying vise to a really expensive one? What do you get in a $500 vise? What is your take on using non-standard, "buggy" variations on standard fly proportions? Is the Double Davy Knot stronger than an Improved Clinch Knot?