Magnus Forsberg: The UV Glue Wizard

Fly tying is a wonderful pastime and in our “Fly Tyer Spotlight” column, we present some of the most talented and innovative fly tyers across Europe and beyond. They are fly tyers worthy of acclaim and attention – and they represent a great source of creative inspiration.

Full name: Magnus Forsberg Age: 42 Home country: Sweden Instagram profile: www.instagram/foppazonker

Magnus Forsberg is an innovative Swedish fly tyer, who excels in nymphs and baitfish patterns. His tying style is very contemporary and creative, and he mostly just fishes his own patterns, which – to a large extent – mix both natural and synthetic materials.

Magnus fishes a lot for trout, and he has perfected the art of nymphing for these fish in fast and relatively deep water using weighted nymphs and jig-fry nymphs. The latter have proven super effective for especially resident brown trout during summer and fall.

What is it about fly tying that you like so much?

I love the versatility and the endless possibilities you have. Only the imagination puts an end to what you can create.

What kind of flies do you most enjoy to tie?

I most enjoy tying nymphs and baitfish patterns; the flies that I use the most when I’m out fishing my local waters. My specialty is to tie flies with all kinds of UV resins in order to build profiles and body textures.

What are the most important/determining factors when you design a new fly pattern?

I think it’s important to have a good idea or pre-existing concept about how the fly needs to look in order to fish well.

I’m particularly preoccupied with realistic designs, balance and hydrodynamics.

What’s your favourite fish species to catch and why?

Trout, without a doubt! Because you can fish them in so many different ways, and because they are so amazingly beautiful.

How to you target trout with nymphs? Do you have any special techniques or tricks?

I fish for trout almost exclusively in rivers. My favourite method is Euronymphing with a big baitfish nymph as a “point fly” and a caddis larvae imitation as a dropper. My advice is: Don’t be afraid to look for trout where the current is strongest. Just use heavy flies to break the surface current and reach the bottom. You will be surprised!!!

Are there any specific fly tyers that have influenced and inspired you over the years?

Lennart Bergqvist, Bob Clouser and Jeff Rowley.