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Fly tiers should be aware that specific state, federal and international laws apply to the legal possession, transportation and use of natural materials (i.e. feathers and furs) for tying flies. Laws of particular application are the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (1918), Marine Mammal Protection Act (1972) and Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (1975). These and similar state and federal laws generally were established to protect certain species from commercial trade and exploitation that could threaten survival in the wild, but they each include provisions for authorization of allowable take (i.e. possession, transportation, sale and purchase) where such take is consistent with conservation of those species. Fly tiers can protect themselves with a general awareness of these laws, but most importantly, by only purchasing the natural materials they possess and transport for use in tying flies from reputable and authorized sources. This is particularly important when transporting natural materials across international borders. Therefore, it is the policy of the Fly Fishers International (FFI) that fly tiers who are invited to teach or demonstrate fly tying at FFI events possess at those events only those natural materials that are in full compliance with applicable laws regarding possession, transportation, sale and purchase for any purpose.
Prepared by:
Tom H. Logan, Certified Wildlife Biologist
Senior Advisor on Conservation
Chairman, Fly Tying Group Board of Governors
September 26, 2014
Approved by: FFI Executive Committee - November 17, 2014
Ratified by: FFI Board of Directors - December 1, 2014
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