Re: [VFB] Quote

[Dr. Doug Miller]

I have fished trimmed hackle. . . not because I was ahead of my time or because I am a visionary.  Simply because I am cheap!  On occasion, I will tie a renegade and not be very happy with the hackle proportion.  Since where I fish that particular fly the trout have rarely seen a human and don't particularly care about proportions, I felt safe just trimming instead of tying again.  I haven't noticed any difference other than increased stiffness in the trimmed hackle. Truth is. . .I've never admitted this and have been a little ashamed to let anyone look in my fly box for fear they would snicker and point to my sheared hackles! Doug ----- Original Message ----- From: Richard Zieger To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>"virtual fly box" Sent: Saturday, November 16, 2002 8:40 AM Subject: [VFB] Quote "A very interesting point for the dry fly man, founded on solid facts, is that trimmed rooster hackle will float longer than untrimmed.  It will stand more abuse and will take as many fish as the untrimmed: chances are such hackle will take more.  First, larger, stiffer hackles can be used and trimmed down to size.  Second, an insect's legs really are not sharply pointed like the ends of untrimmed hackle.  Thirdly, trimmed ends do not absorb any water, as you might think they would.  Fourthly, you can use a heavier hook with them if you desire, because they will carry additional weight.  The best test is to try the trimmed hackle flies yourself.  There is one serious drawback to trimmed hackle flies.  Fisherman do not like their appearance. although the fish do."   "Professional Fly Tying, Spinning and Tackle Making"   by  George Leonard Herter     Rick   What are your thoughts on this?