Fly Tying with a Legend: Steve Farrar & the Iconic SF Blend

Fly Tying with a Legend:
Steve Farrar & the Iconic SF Blend

Few names in the world of fly tying carry the weight of Steve Farrar. A true innovator, Steve is the creator of the "SF Blend", a synthetic material that has revolutionized how we tie and fish baitfish patterns. I recently had the privilege of visiting Steve at his home, where he shared his process, wisdom, and the artistry behind his craft.

The Birth of SF Blend

Steve Farrar’s SF Blend is more than just a synthetic fiber—it has become an essential material for fly tiers worldwide. Introduced in the mid-2000s, SF Blend was designed to replicate the natural movement of baitfish. Its lightweight, durable, and non-absorbent properties make it an excellent choice for both saltwater and freshwater patterns. Anglers targeting everything from striped bass to tarpon have long relied on this versatile material to create lifelike, effective flies with minimal effort.

Tying a Baitfish Pattern with Steve

During our session, Steve graciously walked us through tying a simple, yet very effective baitfish pattern using his signature material. Watching him work was a special treat, his work with blended fibers, layering them just right to achieve the perfect profile and movement in the water, was awesome.

A Must-Watch for Fly Tiers

Whether you're an experienced fly tier or just starting out, learning from a legend like Steve Farrar is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. His innovative approach and willingness to share his expertise make every session invaluable. If you haven't tried tying with SF Blend yet, now’s the time to add it to your fly-tying arsenal.

Join me in watching this video as we tie flies with Steve!

Sergio

Fly Tying with a Legend: Steve Farrar & the Iconic SF Blend