Oregon Council FFF Fly Tying Expo in Albany

[Les Johnson]

Just returned from the Oregon Council FFF Fly Tying Expo which was moved this year from Eugene to Albany, Oregon. It was a very nice event that ran two days (Friday and Saturday) instead of one. It also invited vendors for the first time. In addition to all of the fly tiers, there were several classes held and an inside fly-casting pool. There is more room and a lot better light in the Albany facility than at the fairgrounds in Eugene. However, we didn't have the usual compliment of Washington tiers this year, or so it seemed. Those that I talked to included; Vern Jerimica, Preston Singletary and Harry Lemire. I surely would like to see more Washington tiers at this event next year. In the past we were heavily represented. There are some outstanding tiers in Washington that have a lot to offer at this event such as this, which is also a great getaway.
I went with my wife, Carol. She checked out all of the tiers on Friday and early on Saturday. Then she hit the historical district of Albany where there are blocks of antique shops, etc.
So, stay tuned. I will post information on the 2008 Oregon Council FFF Fly Tying Expo when I receive it.
Good Tying,
Les Johnson

[Tim Cottage]

In addition to those mentioned above, these are the Washington tiers that I remember seeing. I am sure there were others that I am not familiar with.

Rocky Hammond, Stu Farnham, Steve Brocco, Jack Cook, John Olschewsky, Randy Diefert, Byron Bjerke, Hunter Bachand, Glenn Wilson. Steve Buckner gave a casting demo.

This show keeps getting better. The new venue is an improvement in many ways. The vendors were off to the side and in no way intrusive.
There were some excellent tiers tying in a wide variety of styles. It is just about impossible not to leave feeling in some way enlightened and refreshed by the talent and dedication present at this event.

There are some darned good tiers down there in Oregon.

TC

[halcyon]

I resemble those remarks:p I guess living in Vancouver is too close to Portland to be considered WA anymore:hmmm: Gee, Les you and I looked over your copy of your new book at the show in front of the Fly Shop booth and you didn't even see me, and I was tying tube flies to boot:eek:
:rofl:

Regards,