✓ Fly Tying Expert

Kyle Knight

Fly Tying Specialist · South African Angler · Freshwater & Estuary Expert

I’ve been tying flies and fly fishing in South Africa for over 20 years. I have a personal rule: I only fish with flies I’ve tied myself. This philosophy has given me deep insight into what makes effective fly patterns and tying materials. My reviews of fly tying gear come from thousands of hours at the vise.

20+

Years Experience

1000s

Flies Tied

100%

Self-Tied Flies
"

"I can only use flies I have tied myself to catch fish."

This personal philosophy drives Kyle's deep expertise in fly tying materials, tools, and techniques.

Background & Training

Graduate Diploma, Silwood

Environmental and wildlife studies from Silwood School of Environmental Studies, South Africa

South African Waters

Expert knowledge of South African freshwater and estuary systems, including trophy yellowfish waters

20+ Years at the Vise

Two decades of fly tying experience, testing materials, tools, and techniques from around the world

Fishing Journey

Present
Fly Tying Gear Reviewer
Lead reviewer for fly tying equipment at Fly Fisher Pro. Test vises, tools, materials, and kits with the same rigor I apply to my own tying. Every recommendation comes from hands-on use.
Ongoing
Self-Tied Fly Philosophy
Committed to only fishing flies I tie myself. This discipline has forced me to truly understand what makes effective patterns and what separates good tying materials from great ones.
20+ Years
South African Angling
Targeting diverse species across South African waters: trout in the highlands, carp in the lowlands, and bass in farm dams. Plus estuary species like grunter, garrick, and kob along the coast.
Origins
Learning the Craft
Started fly fishing and tying as a teenager. Quickly became obsessed with understanding how flies work and why certain patterns outperform others in specific conditions.

Areas of Expertise

Fly Tying Vises & Tools
Fly Tying Materials & Thread
Trout & Carp Fly Patterns
South African Estuary Fishing
Beginner Fly Tying Kits
Yellowfish & Bass on the Fly

Fly Tying Specialties

🪰
Nymphs
Weighted patterns for deep runs
🦟
Dry Flies
Delicate surface patterns
🐟
Streamers
Baitfish imitations
🦐
Carp Flies
Specialized carp patterns

Target Species

Freshwater
Trout, Carp, Bass, Yellowfish
Estuary
Grunter, Garrick, Kob
Specialty
Large Mouth Yellowfish

Connect with Kyle

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