LIVINGSTON MANOR– Inside the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum, where the history of fly fishing runs deep, a small group of dedicated fly tiers gathered around a table to share knowledge, stories, and a passion for preserving one of the region’s oldest traditions.

The local fly-tying event was relaxed and intimate, with only a handful of attendees at the start. As people slowly trickled in, a core group stayed around the table throughout the event, listening, tying, and talking like old friends. Between lessons on materials and techniques, conversations drifted naturally into local happenings, personal stories, and the shared appreciation for the Catskills and its rich fishing heritage.

Leading the event was presenter Seth Cavarretta, who began with the basics of fly tying, focusing on one of the most important natural materials in traditional fly construction: chicken feathers. He walked attendees through what makes a quality feather, what characteristics to look for, and how different parts of the feather can influence the creation of an effective fly.

As he tied, Cavarretta also shared the deeper history behind the craft. He explained how fly tying developed in the Catskills, a region widely considered the home of American fly fishing, and how those early techniques have evolved into countless styles found across the country today.

The discussion went beyond simply making a fly. Cavarretta emphasized the importance of understanding the environment where the fly will be used, explaining how water conditions, surroundings, and the behavior of fish can influence the materials and colors a tier chooses. While modern materials have introduced new possibilities for fly tiers, he shared his preference for staying connected to the traditional Catskill style by using natural materials and honoring the methods of the past.

Throughout the presentation, Cavarretta continued tying flies while speaking, demonstrating the skill and experience behind the craft. His ability to explain intricate techniques while carefully constructing each fly showcased a true mastery of the art. Even when something didn’t go exactly as planned, he simply unraveled the mistake, adjusted, and continued without missing a beat.

For Cavarretta, fly tying is about more than creating something to catch fish — it is about preserving a connection to the past.

“I love the history of the area,” Cavarretta said. “I’m a big student of the area and the Catskill style. I do this because I want to keep this heritage alive. It’s a lot of fun trying to seek out the vintage materials and hooks to emulate that historical style.”

He spoke about the experience of recreating flies the way early fishermen did, finding old materials, tying patterns in traditional styles, and even pairing them with bamboo rods to experience the craft as it was generations ago.

“There’s nothing like finding the materials the old fisherman used to use, tying a fly in their style and using a bamboo rod exactly like the old days,” Cavarretta said. “This region has such a rich history, and this is where a lot of this all started.”

The event reflected the spirit of the Catskills fly fishing community — a place where history, craftsmanship, and personal connection all meet. Through gatherings like these, the traditions of fly tying are passed down, not only through techniques and materials, but through the stories and relationships that keep the heritage alive.

“I’m just trying to do my part,” Cavarretta said. “We do a ton of educating and youth activities throughout the center and museum, and I’m very proud of the work we all do.”