Neck Hackle v Saddle Hackle

[Hendrickson]

You have a saddle patch and a full neck. A few givens:

a)Both come from same genetic breeder
b)Both are from either the same rooster or equivalent quality roosters, meaning both are the top grade from that breeder
c)You tie the same pattern, in the same size, and in the same way

Are you of the opinion that one of the resulting flies will:

a)Have stiffer hackle
b)If Yes, which one
c)Look better Which one
d)Float better
e)Be more durable

Hendrickson

[Bugsy]

a) yes
b) saddle=thicker,stronger barbs (typically)
c) depends on pattern
d) depends on water type
e) saddle probably, but (IMO) durability has roughly as much to do with tying technique as it does with feather type or quality.

[Bamboozle]

I agree with Bugsy's replies and only want to add to C:

When I want to tie a classic fly like a Catskill or something small like a midge; I like the way the thinner neck hackle fibers look. They look more delicate and enhance the appearance of certain flies. So IMHO neck hackle looks better in these situations to ME.

But I do use a ton of saddles for most other flies when I plan to look at them less and fish with them more. I just find the saddles easier to use.

[Bugsy]

When I want to tie a classic fly like a Catskill or something small like a midge; I like the way the thinner neck hackle fibers look. They look more delicate and enhance the appearance of certain flies.

My thoughts exactly. With some saddle hackles, delicate flies such as "Catskill dries" can become overwhelmed.