I get the question, but without qualifying what ‘best’ means, I can’t answer it simply. You are getting folks asnwering based on the esoteric stuff, mostly about economy and how the feather makes tying easier, feather size, etc.
In fact, since all the other stuff like barb count, ease of winding, length, stiffness, etc., has to do with how WE percieve and assemble the fly, the answer is moot.
Since I see absoulutely no difference in how the flies tied with either fish, and catch fish, then there is no ‘best’. Both work the same in the water, according to the true judge of the fly.
I caught fish on flies tied with Indian necks before we had all these wonderful feathers, both necks and saddles. Lots of fish. The actual ‘quality’ of the feather is irrelevant to the fish.
So, I use and own lots of both, basing my choice on what I’m doing with it.
Web? Cupping? Less stiff barbs? I’d be curious to know what kind of saddles you’re using? The only hackle I’ve bought in the past 10 years that displayed any cupping was a no-name “bargain” neck that I got on-line for under $10; took a chance because I liked the color and it didn’t work out. Besides that, I’ve had no problem finding quality, inexpensive (relatively) saddle hackle:
These feathers (size #18 ) are about 10" long, web-free, twist-free, no cup, usable from butt to tip and are a pleasure to tie with. If my flies don’t float, it’s certainly not the hackle’s fault.
That’s a reasonable question about the definition of “BEST”. The probable truth is, there is no one ‘Best’. Different necks and saddles each have advantages and disadvantages. Types, quantities, sizes and other aspects of tying enter into the benefits of the saddle v. neck comparison. HOWEVER … for the purpose of my inquiry, I’ll ask the question this way “If you were tying 1 dry fly, and had to pick one or the other, would you rather use a saddle or a neck feather” (let’s say that quality is not an issue. both from a top grade Whiting)
Now this might elicit some responses asking further clarification or others giving a legal opinion - on 1 hand blah, blah, blah. But on the other hand blah, blah, blah.
Let’s say this is a vote and you only get 1. Do you cast your vote for: a)saddle, or b)neck?
I agree completely. Who are we kidding. The high grade Whiting saddles are incredible! Just a joy to tie with.
I too started out tying with India necks. What a pain. For a normal dry, you usually needed to use 2 feathers.
If you can afford the best quality Whiting saddles, they are the “best” feathers for tying!!!
I think saddles are the best for “dry fly” tying as the (first immediate) question was asked, which had nothing to do with wooly buggers and streamers. Necks are good but only “SO” good… I get much more bang for my buck with a good saddle.
Depends on what pattern I am tying or designing. As to quality, Whiting is simply the best. I am very good friends with Tom Mullen who himself is a fantastic and Knowledgable tyer, and works for Whiting Farms.
