I've heard varried opinions of the hackle-size-versus-hook debate, and it has been suggested that I check out "A modern dry fly code" from the local library. While I'll still use my eyes as a backup for verifying hackle size, I like to pre-sort the hackle "by 2's", or rather, by even-numbered hook gape sizes. This way, I can pull out the bag for a specific size and color and have less to sort through when looking for a "right" hackle. What is the old addage, a stitch in time saves nine? I strip every hackle from the pelt and sort them, so that when I go to tie up say a few dozen lt cahills or adams, the right size and color hackle are there. Personal preference, is all
Thanks for the advice on the gauge,
Pete
On 5/16/06, Martin Westbeek <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Pete,The Whiting hackle gauge is great. When they first started designing it they wanted to make the best hackle gauge in the word, and I think they succeeded. I saw some early studies and designs. That being said, I also like to measure my hackle against the fly, that tells me how a certain length will *look*. That's especially handy if there is a material under the hackle, since that influences the hackle size.Mart----- Original Message -----From: Peter GrampSent: Tuesday, May 16, 2006 1:04 AMSubject: Re: [VFB] WAS art of angling NOW dry hackles
Hmm, now I'm paranoid regarding my subscriptions... I haven't received a fly tyer in ages, but I renewed via visa card at the Sommersett show... Things that make you say "Hmmm..."
On a different note, I just got my hands on a half- neck of "Grizzley barred Dark Ginger" which is as close to cree as I can get on my crazy budget... Some of the 'miscellaneous ultra- webby Size 8 or larger ' feathers (not spade, but just below on the neck) are of little use to me apart from stripped quills, and for feathers of this color, I'm reluctant to strip them for dry-fly bodies. Could anyone (preferably new tiers) use these for wets and/or streamers, free of charge? It's not a lot, so don't get your hopes up, but it'll fill a few business envelopes.While I'm thinking of hackles, I'm curious how everyone sizes dry-fly hackles -- I preen an entire neck or saddle, then use the griffin guage that attaches to the vise stem. I've found it difficult, though, due to the large width of the printed borders between hackle sizes. I've seen the Whiting hackle guage, but it seems an expensive route to go for such a relatively simple tool. Has anyone tried using a golden- means tool on hook gaps and drawing a linear step-map of the respective golden- means for hackle-length? (If this makes no sense to you, I apologize, as it's the scientist coming out in me...) I'm curious what you use - if anything - to size hackle.
Thanks and tight lines,Pete
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