TESTIMONIALS
"Its holding in place power is awesome..."
JOYCE WESTPHAL
FLY TYER
Joyce Westphal is a CRNA (certified registered nurse anesthetist) who grew up fishing a small farm pond in South Dakota, USA.
She currently resides in Springville, Utah & learned to tie flies & is learning to flyfish since moving here 24 years ago.
She loves her Provo River which flows at the foot of beautiful Mount Timpanogos.
"I've been a rotary tier for many years, but not until I used an automatic bobbin was I really happy with the process. I use several bobbins, the Norlander bobbin, which has an automatic clutch, & the Ekich bobbin. I love each for a different reason. The Nor-bobbin has an automatic clutch, but you must respool the thread each time to fill the bobbin.
Unlike this bobbin, the Ekich bobbin has the distinct advantage that it will take any size standard spool of tying thread without any rewinding. You don't have to buy any extra spools. This is a big plus when one changes thread sizes, colors, & brands as frequently as I do. It will also take a "non-standard" unwaxed silk thread spool which one can buy in any specialty
fabric store, & the cost of that real silk is much less when purchased in the fabric store, so you get more thread for the same amount of money.
I like the feel of the bobbin in my arthritic hands. It is small & concise, threads freely, & is easy to re-thread when you break the thread. I am impressed with the holding power of the bobbin. It doesn't slip or fall to the table when you are tying, & moving it to the tying post & back again is smooth & quick. Its holding in place power is awesome...you don't have to palm the spool as you do with a standard bobbin. This is really appreciated when one has arthritic hands & pressure on the bobbin spool causes pain.
One does have to lift the bobbin from time to time to let
the winder rewind...but only on large flies, & it is so simple to do that one can simply flick their finger, lift the spool off & place it down again taking only a second of time. On small flies, the spring will let you tie an entire fly. And, the good news, when you're done with your fly, all you have to do is quickly lift the spool & the thread won't suck back into the bobbin spigot.
In short, I have & love this bobbin. It is a great travel bobbin. But be warned. When you do a fly-tying expo & demonstrate rotary tying, be sure & keep it constantly in your hand or pocket of your tying apron. When other people see it, they see its advantages, want one & tend to take it with them."
"...invaluable, beautifully crafted & performs superbly."
JAY SMIT"After waiting almost 3 weeks, the long awaited parcel finally arrived. I ordered both the Salmon and Trout models with ceramic tips.
I have been using an automatic bobbin for a few years. They are an invaluable partner to a rotary vice as the thread rewinds to the desired position automatically after being stored on the bobbin rest (or any task that requires a lot of thread between the bobbin and the fly such as hand whip finishing etc). Gone is the tedious task of rewinding the spool by hand.
There were two major problems with my previous model. Firstly the thread has to be wound onto a special spool for use with the bobbin and the second problem which made it virtually unusable for me (because I love tying with really fine thread 6/0 and thinner) was that when the spring length is exhausted one has to pull more thread off the spool. This requires additional force with a
result that the thread often broke at this point. Not Good.
The Ekich solves both these problems. Firstly it takes standard spools. Just pop them on. Thread the bobbin and you are in business. The perfectly calibrated spring balances the bobbin at any point. Secondly and this is the most important feature is that when the spring reaches the end of its range simply move the thread spool a few mm away from the bobbin body. This action disengages a locking pin allowing the spring to rewind. Then reseat the spool. This operation takes about a second to perform.
Automatic bobbin's do take a bit of getting used to. The main thing to remember is to re-set the spool before cutting off the thread when the fly is complete as well as resetting it before the spring reaches the end of it's range. Once you get into this habit it is an absolute pleasure to use.
Fly tying is all about thread control specially when tying in
delicate materials and flaring buck tails that need to be tamed. The Ekich Bobbin performs these tasks perfectly. When zero thread tension is required pull away from the hook releasing the desired amount of thread, trap the spool with the 4th and 5th finger and then do that first critical soft wrap. When more thread force is required simply apply additional tension to the spool using the 4th and 5th finger. This control technique can easily be mastered in ones first tying secession.
The bobbin is very comfortable in the hand because of the wire loop on the open side. See picture above which is the correct grip when tying except that the 4th and 5th fingers would close around the spool to control thread tension.
Yes this is a pricey item retailing at $90.00 US but if you are a serious fly tyer and own a rotary vice it is a gadget that is invaluable, beautifully crafted and performs superbly. You will never regret this purchase."
"The constant smooth thread control is a real dream."
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BOB HOBACK
FLY TYER
Click on Bob's picture for a look at his tying bench.
"My comments are truly the way I feel about the Ekich bobbin. It seems like I have always been looking for a better bobbin & I have used all styles. For a number of years I used an automatic bobbin that doesn't have the features of yours, such as the use of standard thread
spools. My search for the ultimate bobbin has just ended. The constant smooth thread control is a real dream. The spool socket that prevents the thread spool hub tangles is a pleasure. The stainless steel tube length on your salmon bobbin seems just about right for all around tying.
I believe that once a tyer uses the Ekich bobbin, they will never use any other. I've attached a photo of me at the tying bench. If you can use my comment or photo to promote your bobbin, feel free to do so. Again, thanks for your help & friendly service."
"...essential for speed wrapping."
DOC WEINER
COMMERCIAL FLY TYER
"I have been using the Fly Tying Enhancements (invented and produced by Faruk Ekich), Automatic Bobbin for five years.
I am a commercial fly tier, mostly saltwater flies.
I do a great deal of wrapping of chenille for the body of these flies and I find the Automatic
Bobbin essential for speed wrapping.
I move the bobbin to the post while using my vise to wrap the fly body. The thread then automatically rewinds ready to tie off and for the next step which is usually wrapping a hair wing.
I tie many dozens of Clousers and other saltwater fly patterns. My Automatic Bobbin makes it easier and faster. I wouldn't tie without it !!!"
"...one well thought out tool."
JOHN H. REID
FLY TYER
"This bobbin is one well thought out tool.
I find that the outstreached wire arrangement enables me to hold it in a most comfortable and helpful position.
The automatic feature is, of course, the greatest help around. In 20 years of tying flies I am
amazed and wondering how I ever got along without it.
Sometimes, in a rare situation, I find it more convienient to use a conventional bobbin (or use a regular bobbin in conjunction with it), but the Ekich Bobbin is now my basic bobbin.
I had been looking at another type of automatic bobbin where one has to take all the thread off of it's original spool and put it on a special one made for that bobbin...I am thankful for the alternative to that process made possible by your invention. A satisfied customer."
"...never have I found it so easy to tie."
DAVID M. DORN
FLY TYER
"Dear Mr. Ekich, The bobbin arrived yesterday...I just tied a few flies with it.
There are very few products I have encountered my lifetime that I felt could truly justify their price. Your bobbin
certainly does...never have I found it so easy to tie. The whole process seems to just simplify itself with your bobbin. I tried it on both my stationary and rotary vice and the result was equally superb. Every complaint
I had with the Nor Vise bobbin you have solved with absolute engineering elegance.
I will be back for a couple more after the new year. Again, thanks for a perfect product."
"Across the board, it gets an A++"
CHRIS WHITLEY
FLY TYER
"Simply Amazing! Over the past two weeks, I have given up tying for the sake of flies, and focused solely on putting my new Ekich Bobbin to the test. Across the board, it gets an A++. Contrary to the information on your website, the learning curve was surprisingly short. Changing of spools is quick and effortless; so, I see little to no need for an arsenal of bobbins. I have tied with "Uni Big Fly" down to 17/0, and the tension has remained
perfect and appropriate for the task at hand. The materials have been held firmly in place on the hook without a single broken thread...no more overpowering the thread/bobbin. The rewind function has allowed me to leave or place the bobbin exactly where I want it or need it at all times. I have been able to gracefully back off of materials without losing thread tension or fussing with the bobbin.
For the first time, I feel that I am using the full potential of my true rotary vise, with better results and at a quicker pace. And, last but not least, it is the most ergonomic bobbin that I have used...great balance and feel.
You deserve much kudos for such a great design! It is worth every penny, and I will be back soon to get another bobbin for my travel case.
Keep up the great work."
CASEY PELTIER
FLY TYER
"I still love mine more and more each time I tie. Latest discovery: I can release the tension halfway through a large fly and still keep accuracy at a maximum."
DALE MARION
FLY TYER
"When I first saw the picture of the Ekich Bobbin I was impressed with the quality of the design, a machined brass thread hub, anodized aluminum housing, even the lettering on the side of the housing appears as if it where laser etched. And, it was an automatic bobbin that uses standard spools. How could I lose, I decided to buy one and try it out."
CHARLES KADISH
FLY TYER
"I used the bobbin to tie a few simple streamer patterns last night and it worked flawlessly."
FRANK THOMPSON
FLY TYER
"Just a note to let you know that I think you make one of the finest bobbin holders made. I currently own over one hundred eighty-five (185+) bobbin holders and yours are as good or better than all the bobbin holders made. Please keep making the great equipment that you make."
Frank's bio
Frank's flies
GIAN PAOLO FAVA
FLY TYER
"Your bobbin holder is and remains one of those things that makes flytying a pleasure."
WILLIAM T. BLY
FLY TYER
"I LOVE it. It was totally worth the $. While I'm not a professional tier, it will still shave time off on each fly. More importantly, I don't have to deal with rewinding the spool each time which is a pain in the butt."
CHIP CHILDRESS
FLY TYER
"Having used your bobbin now for a couple of weeks, I can say without a doubt that yours is superior to any retracting bobbin that I know of on the market. Not having to respool the thread is a great thing. Your bobbin is much more ergonomicly designed than the competitors as well. It is smooth operating and a pleasure to use. I am very pleased with it and will highly recommend it."
TOM HEMBREE
FLY TYER
"I finally got a chance to try my new bobbin. What a pleasant surprise. It fits naturally in the hand and is very comfortable. Tension and rewind is great. I am most pleased and would recommend it to anyone."
W.G. MILLER
FLY TYER
"You probably hear this a lot, but thanks for still making a quality product in this day of mass-produced junk."
M.L. JACKSON JR
FLY TYER
"I really enjoy all the ways it enhances my flytying."
MATT MATSUSHITA
FLY TYER
"Thank you for providing the fly tying community with your excellent product."
JIM BERDAN
FLY TYER
"I have had the bobbin for about a week now and I really like it. It's easy to use and gives me great thread control. I especially like the fact that it accepts all my thread spools."
DIRK BURTON
FLY TYER
"It is precise, easy to use, and eliminates the need to rewind thread onto the spool should you have to unwrap a few turns to make an adjustment to materials on a fly under construction. Dubbing loops are made simply, and it handles a variety of thread sizes gently and with ease."
BRAD NICKEL
FLY TYER
"I wanted to tell you that your bobbin has been an absolute joy to use! It is a phenomenal tool and I wish I had found it years ago...Great tool, very good price in my opinion for such a tool, and exceptional quality. I will definitely be giving it praises to my fellow serious tiers. Nice work and thank you!"
ERIC AUSTIN
FLY TYER
"Now that I'm completely used to the bobbin, it's ruined me for the conventional ones that I normally use."
PEIJE VERHOEFF
FLY TYER
"I received the bobbins yesterday and immediately tried them out. They are really excellent. Great feature to be able to shorten the thread with only one hand and what an fine weight they have of their own: masterpieces!"
ROBERT COCHRANE
FLY TYER
"Your bobbin works like a dream. I quickly reached a point where
I can't be without my Ekich Bobbin. I'm going to have to order a few more."
BOB HOBACK
REPEAT CUSTOMER
"I just wanted to let you know I received the bobbin yesterday, Oct 9. In the evening I tied some baetis flies using both bobbins, one of the threads was the 17/0. It is still amazing how smoothly the bobbin handles the small delicate threads. I'm glad you had the desire to develop it."
GARY W. CLARK
FLY TYER
"I have never considered fine tools to be an expense, rather they are an asset. Your bobbin will pay for itself many times over just in the joy of using it."
ROY-TORE GJERTSEN
FLY TYER
"I have used my automatic bobbin for about two months now, and I am really impressed. It is a work of art! It works flawlessly and is a delight to work with. I wonder how I managed without it for so long :)
I had some problems to begin with because I held too much tension on the spool that resulted in thread breakage. But it was two evenings with trial and error, and then everything worked perfectly."
UWE HEYK
FLY TYER
"After long waiting I have finally tried the bobbin and I'm full with enthusiasm. It's a dream to tie with the Ekich bobbin and the tying is much easier and faster. This bobbin I should have 20 years before.
I think this is the best available bobbin you can get. I like it very much and it is a pleasure to work with. Sure, it isn't cheap, but it is worth every penny. Thank you for this perfect tool. I will highly recommend it.
ERNIE KALWA
2007 CDN FLYFISHING TEAM MEMBER
"Just thought I'd drop you a line to say I'm really enjoying the Bobbin! It took a few days of getting used to it, but it really speeds up fly-tying for me. I like the spring retrieve when half-hitching & whip-finishing."
HENK VERHAAR
FLY TYER
"...not least the fact that it takes standard bobbins make this an expensive tool that is worth every penny."
BOB MEAD
REALISTIC FLY TYER
"I've been taking some tying stuff with me to while away the unproductive times on the rivers. I am using your great little bobbin. Getting so I'd rather tie without my thumbs then that little beauty!!!"
JERRY GRIFFIN
FLY TYER
"Not only is it time-consuming and inconvenient to transfer thread from factory to special spools, re-spooling also adds twist to the thread. So I am looking forward to avoiding that problem as well. No re-spooling, no extra cost, and uniform thread flatness and tension are all apparent advantages that your automatic bobbin has over the competition."
STEVE COTTRILL
FLY TYER
"The bobbin is everything it is advertised as, and I might add an observation...It's like having an extra set of hands except that these hands operate a LOT smoother than mine."
NICK DEMARTE
FLY TYER
"I picked up the bobbin at the post office on Saturday. It is impressive. Very well made and designed. I could not resist trying it so I tied two small (and very simple) size 20 flies (3x long) and I was pretty well trained in the operation of the bobbin after the first fly. I would say it has a 15 minute learning curve. All I can say is well done! I just can't believe it, it actually does what I always wished a bobbin would do."
STEPHEN CONNACHER
FLY TYER
"I must note that I made an effort to see what other choices are available to someone seeking the features found in your bobbin holder. Without a doubt, yours stands alone. I will name no names here, but simply say that I am confident that I made the best choice when I ordered the Ekich Bobbin."
Stephen's site: newworldcarp.com