Re: [VFB] Spey Hackle?

[Deb Duran]

I just got done re browsing through the hackle article in Rare & Unusual Vol 
2.   I can see your point.   I still think it's a shame that the the 
original spey cocks are gone.  The endangered species is directed more at 
the Eagle feathers and Heron feathers.  I find so many subs that are just as 
suitable.
Not to say I don't have some nice feathers but I like to feel comfortable 
about their origin.
Deb
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Paul Marriner" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Wednesday, August 25, 2004 7:21 PM
Subject: Re: [VFB] Spey Hackle?


Deb, please don't get too carried away. The Spey cock was a breed of
chicken that may now have disappeared, but would hardly be considered as
an endangered species. Thousands of other breeds have also disappeared.
Man has messed with the breeding of poultry far more than most other
domesticated species (easier for many reasons).
As you suggested, the original Spey-cock feathers (I know it's picky,
but I think it's important to capitalize the "S" in Spey) do appear to
be more like schlappen, but with a thinner quill. For the unfamiliar,
while there is a resemblance in appearance but not size, today's
salmon-pattern throats are often tied with hen-neck feathers.
One entire series of salmon flies used eagle marabou; turkey marabou is
an acceptable substitute.
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.