Description
In this video, I take a closer look at hen saddles and capes and show how these wonderful natural feathers can be used when tying traditional soft hackle wet flies.
Hen hackles have been used by fly tyers for generations, and for good reason. Their soft, mobile fibres give a wet fly that lovely natural movement when fished through the water, helping to bring the fly to life.
I'll explain what to look for when selecting feathers from a hen saddle or cape, how to choose the right hackle and natural colour for the fly I am tying, and how to get the best for them, even using unusual methods to get the materials to work and swim.
Whether you're tying traditional North Country spiders, river wets, or your own soft hackle patterns, understanding the different feathers available on a hen cape or saddle can make a real difference to your finished flies.
As I've always believed, it's not just about tying a fly that looks good in the vice, but creating something that fishes well too.
I hope you enjoy the video and find a few useful tips along the way.
All the very best,
Davie McPhail