Parachute hackle question...

[Andrew Mann]

When tying parachute hackle on a dry fly, let's say on a size #14 hook, do you select a size #14 hackle feather, or a size #16 hackle feather?

Thanks...

[Chuck441]

The reverse. I always use a hackle feather that's one size larger than the standard for the hook size. Parachutes, because the hackle is tied on above and parallel to the water surface, tend to tip. The slightly oversize hackle minimizes that.

Chuck

[nick0danger]

I also like to use white foam as the post, floats with out gink

[Bob S]

I have a good method for mixing two feathers on a parachute. Tie both in and wrap the stems up the post. Grip both at once with a pair of hackle pliers (I put some heat shrink tubing at the hackle pliers tips, this makes a grippy rubber and won't cut hackle). Take a dubbing tool and spin the hackle pliers with both hackles in them. It mixes the colors very nice. Wrap as one feather with the hackle pliers. Down side is some fibers will splay upward, these can be trimmed. Plus side, it really mixes the colors nice. Griz and brown for example.
Bob

[Eight Thumbs]

Andrew,

One other interesting point. You can get away with a little lower hackle quality with parachutes as long as the center stem is relatively flexible. The hackle rests on the surface rather than holding the fly above the surface. 8T

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You had better learn to be a happy camper. You only get one try at this campground and it's a real short camping season.




[This message has been edited by Eight Thumbs (edited 11 March 2006).]