How to Make Wooden Fly Boxes

A brightly colored fishing fly.

Fly tying is a time honored art. Many flies will never see the gentle currents of a stream because they will become the prized possession of collectors. Even ancient flies that have been used time and again eventually find their way into a collection. Collectors and enthusiasts need a safe way to display and store their prized flies. A wooden box is a beautiful way to store and display hand tied flies. Fly fisherman and collectors will admire a handcrafted wooden box to present a stunning collection of meticulously crafted flies.

Things You'll Need

• 4 walnut boards, 1/4 by 2 by 6 inch
• 2 boards, 1/4 by 1 1/2 by 2 inch
• Wood glue
• 1 box of finish nails
• Hammer
• Damp rag
• Wood finish of your choice
• 2 hinges, with screws
• Section of fly box foam, 1 1/2 by 1 1/2 by 5 1/2 inch

Instructions

1. Place two of the 1/4 by 2 by 6 inch walnut boards parallel to each other on a work surface. Space the boards approximately 1 1/2 inches apart. These are the sides. Place the two 1/4 by 1 1/2 by 2 inch boards between the sides. These are the ends. Apply a bead of wood glue along the seams. Fasten the sides to the ends using finish nails and a hammer. Wipe off any excess glue with a damp rag.

2. Align one 1/4 by 2 by 6 inch walnut board on top of the sides. Make sure the board is flush with the edges of the sides. This is the bottom of the box. Apply a bead of wood glue onto the edges. Fasten the bottom to the sides and edges using a hammer and finish nails. Wipe off any excess glue with a damp rag.

3. Apply a wood finish of your choice to the box and remaining parts. Allow the wood finish to dry before continuing. Refer the to the instructions provided with the wood finish for drying instructions.

4. Place the remaining 1/4 by 2 by 6 inch walnut board on top of the box. This is the box lid. Make sure the edges of the lid are flush with the sides. Place one hinge on either end of one side of the box. Fasten the hinges to the box and lid using the provided screws and a screwdriver. Open the box lid.

5. Insert the foam section into the bottom of the box. Place the flies in the box. The hooks stick into the foam and hold them in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Create a nice design on the lid of the box to add to the beauty of the wooden fly box. Wood burning or carving would be nice ways to add a design.

• Wear eye protection when woodworking.

References

• Made on the Yellowstone: Wood Fly Boxes

Resources

• SC Woodshop: Fly Boxes
• Sawmill Creek: Best Wood for a Trout Fly Box
• Fly Tying Forum: Handmade Wooden Fly Boxes