It might be worth a moment or two to clear up some confusion re Spey
flies. Spey flies were named for the river Spey, as that was where the
design originated.
According to Buckland and Oglesby, only 2 of the original 8 patterns
called for heron feathers (grey), the remainder for black or red Spey
cock feathers. These latter were feathers from a particular variety of
rooster, now believed to have disappeared. They are very different from
heron, being instead quite webby. The feathers were tied in at the back
by the butt to have the longest fibers at the back.
Another characteristic (5 patterns) is the bronze mallard wings, tied
very low and short.
The meaning of Spey flies has been grossly mangled. What are now called
Spey flies seem to be anything with a palmered hackle that is long and
flowing.
Cheers,
Paul
http://www.galesendpress.com
--
Paul Marriner
Outdoor Writing & Photography. Member OWAA & OWC. Author of Stillwater
Fly Fishing: Tools & Tactics (Print [NEW] & CD), Modern Atlantic Salmon
Flies, Miramichi River Journal, Ausable River Journal, and Atlantic
Salmon.
