About RJWFlies
I’m Ryan, the angler behind RJWFlies. Fishing has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My dad first introduced me to the sport when I was about five years old, taking me sea fishing in Portballintrae on the north coast of Ireland. Those early trips lit a spark that never really left me.
My grandfather also played a huge role in shaping my passion for fishing, especially fly fishing. He loved the sport and would often share stories from his younger days. One of his favourites was how it took him two and a half years to land his very first trout on the fly, a Kate McLaren. When I eventually picked up fly fishing myself, he was over the moon. I used to stop in regularly after trips to give him the full breakdown of each session, and he was always delighted to hear about the fish I’d caught. I suspect he was a little jealous when I told him I’d sometimes manage twenty in a day, though he would never let on. What he didn’t know at the time was that, as a beginner, I had an edge: I was fishing alongside my best mate, who competed for the Irish youth international squad, and I was shamelessly copying his techniques and pinching his flies!
That friendship became a turning point in my angling journey. I had grown up almost exclusively focused on sea fishing, but when I met him at university, he introduced me to the world of fly fishing. In return, I taught him to sea fish. Before long, he had also shown me the ropes of fly tying - and I was hooked straight away. What started as a hobby quickly grew into a lifelong passion. That same friend was best man at my wedding, and even though we now live in different parts of the UK, we still fish together whenever we can.
RJWFlies was born not just to fund my own fishing, but to connect with other anglers, share ideas, and spread the enjoyment of this brilliant sport. One thing I’ve always loved and appreciated about fishing is its inclusivity. Anyone, regardless of age, physical ability, or financial means, can get involved and find joy on the water.
Here at RJWFlies, I pride myself on running an honest, transparent business where customers know exactly what they’re getting. To suit different needs, I’ve built two main ranges:
• RJW Essential Range – Quality, reliable flies at discounted prices. By working with skilled partners and ordering in bulk, I can offer tried-and-tested patterns at competitive prices. Each fly in this range is based on my own designs and tying methods, ensuring consistency and effectiveness.
• RJW Premium Range – The best of my own fly tying. Every fly in this collection is tied by me, here in Scotland, using only top-quality branded hooks and materials. These flies represent the highest standard of my work and are crafted with care, precision, and experience.
Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, my goal is to provide flies that catch fish, inspire confidence, and help you get as much enjoyment from the sport as I do.