Tails for dry flies
I have not tried this on the water but possibly others may have. How would bucktail fibers do for tails? They are stronger and more durably than body hair and flair much less. They are a nuisance to get the fibers to be the proper length but they are quite "springy" compared to limp hackle barbs. Any experimenters out there?
Just a reminder in case you forgot. The original Royal Wulffs that were tyed by Lee Wulff had bucktail fibers for the tail and wing. So did some of the other patterns in this same style too.
If you're just using a few for a tail, they're not nearly as hard to stack; maybe try trimming the butts down a bit before they go in the stacker.
Regards,
Scott
Deer hocks make great dry fly tails especally for Royal wullfs.
I just tied some dries today with moose mane fibres for tails. Hoping for more bouyancy and strength.
Moose body hair makes excellent dry fly tails. It is also good for parachute posts and "quill" bodies.
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