Tom, I was formulating a smart@$$ response and you nipped it in the bud! But I wouldn't be surprised to see someone doing it on the expressway on the way to work someday.... While looking at a pattern on their Blackberry.

I had to go to Downtown Pgh last week and i bet I could have gotten a half dozen of something tied on the pkwy East as long as it took.

I use the cabela's tool kit and I have no problems with it.

This may just be a variation of what has already been said, but I think the best advice for newbies, for any kind of fly fishing equipment, is to get inexpensive but not "cheap" stuff to start. This means stuff that is in the lower or mid price range and is sold by companies who specialize in fly fishing or at least outdoors sporting goods (as in fly shops or places like Cabelas). Avoid the cheapest stuff you can get at places like Wal-mart. There may be exceptions, depending on what you're buying, but you don't want to get something that falls apart real soon or takes away from the enjoyment of the activity. Then as you get to understand what it's all about and get more experience, you will know better and if you want to spend more money and on what.

Well put, Wulff man.

Also, the help of a knowledgable salesperson is huge. Don't discount their advice. This is why a good fly shop is well worth the mark-up.