THE FLY-TYER

credit:
Alex Rangel Freelance Photographer

THE FLY-TYER -- Lon Ellington, Pinetop, Ariz., started tying flies 50 years ago. He also has been building rods for 35 years. Ellington is a legend, having tied flies and built rods for customers all over the world. A native of Phoenix, Ellington began fishing the canals when he was eight-years-old with his dad. He started flyfishing in Christopher Creek with his brothers and brother-in-law. He enjoys both bass and trout fishing, as well as saltwater angling. In addition, this well-respected outdoorsman teaches fly-fishing clinics and classes in tying flies. Readers may be familiar with some of the fly patterns Ellington has designed: Arizona Peacock Lady, Lon's Brindle Seal Nymph, Lon's Damsel Fly, Lon's Grinch, Lon's Bass Bug, Lon's Shad Fly, Lon's Pheasant Wing Hopper, and Lon's Lee's Ferry Shrimp. Ellington has also been the trout advisor for Arizona Fishing News and has made three videos for Arizona Wildlife TV Views (AZGFD). He may be contacted at Ellington's Hand Tied Flies, (928) 367-5603, or by mail at P.O. Box 1253, Pinetop, AZ 85935.