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Sorry, you are right it helps make them more durable. I didn't mention it as I rarely use wire and the species he mentioned I figured would be safe. Using thread instead of wire can help too.

And if you think about this, My method of tying in at the bend add wire as you mentioned at the bend, wrap the chenille or body material forward to the eye, wrap the hackle say clockwise to the eye...

Right on, that is the best and most over looked advise.

Luke, as already mentioned, that fly will get fish. I would offer three suggestions. First being, again, there is nothing wrong with your tie. Secondly, thin out the tail a bit and even substitute...