From Tattoo Artist to Fly Tying Phenomenon: Brian Smith's Meteoric Rise

In this captivating episode of Mending on the Fly, Devin sits down with Brian Smith, the mastermind behind the wildly popular fly tying social media accounts @_TiesFlies_" and TheFliesmith.co. Brian shares his incredible journey from tattoo artist to fly tying sensation, amassing a dedicated following of over 100,000 on each platform in just a year. Discover the secrets behind his mesmerizing fly tying videos, his passion for sharing the art with others, and how he turned his newfound hobby into a thriving business. Brian's inspiring story is a testament to the power of dedication, creativity, and the therapeutic nature of fly fishing and tying. Join us as we dive deep into Brian's world and explore his plans for the future of the fly tying community. Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction to Brian Smith and his social media success  05:00 - Brian's background as a tattoo artist and chef  08:00 - How a fishing trip with a neighbor sparked Brian's passion for fly tying  15:00 - Brian's love for working with latex in fly tying  20:00 - The challenges and rewards of tying realistic flies  24:00 - Brian's research process and the importance of international fly tying forums  28:00 - Plans for a fly tying guild and engaging the younger generation  32:00 - The truth about being on a "pro team" in the fly tying industry  35:00 - How fly tying helps Brian manage anxiety and stress  40:00 - The therapeutic nature of fly fishing and organizations supporting recovery  44:00 - Closing thoughts and how to follow Brian's journey Find Brian on Instagram: @_tiesflies_