Re: [VFB] Hackle size

[StevenOjai]

Hi Rene, I use a hackle gauge just for comparison sizing of the hackles. The real test for me is to see how it looks when applied. What looks right to me is very subjective. I also tend to closely look at patterns tied by others, or more importantly, what the original fly designer had in mind. Proper hackle size can be subjected to the weight of the hook, the gap size, overall design of the fly, type of body material selected, length of tail, how you wish the fly to react in the surface film, etc. The point is that there are so many variables,  you have to mentally bring them all together and just select the size that "looks right". Then test it! I'm finding that my major problem is finding a wide range of sizes in suitable hackle materials. Many of our fine genetic capes seem to be focused on #14-18. When you need larger or smaller sizes than these, it get's difficult to find them. Steve Schalla