Hi melk,

We agree with AlanB about using the full length rather than cutting off the feather into more manageable segments. Also, don't throw away the little pieces left over at the end of the long feather. They usually have a turn or two around a hook left in them; you can use two or three "stubbies" to make "one more fly." Take care & ...

Tight Lines - Gretchen & Al Beatty
www.btsflyfishing.com