Does anyone know of some flies that use sharptail grouse feathers? I have used them for soft-hackles, but that’s about it. The season opens here tomorrow, so I’m looking forward to getting a few partridge and sharpie skins for tying this fall.
Any suggested patterns???
pick one … as a beard on a nymph, tailing material on smaller hooks, hackle for wet flies, (not sure about dry flies - maybe), nymph thorax material. Try it …
As for specific flies that call it out … don’t think so. If you tie warm water flies, minnow patters especially, tie them in as pectoral fins sticking out to the side (gives great action).
darrell,
The primary feathers and larger covert feathers can be used for quill wings, just like teal or mallard.
Some of the smaller feathers along the neck work well as fan wings. Lots of nice soft hackle material.
I like the filoplumes for wing buds on RS-2 patterns. Some of the body feathers can be used for tent style caddis wings if you reinforce them with a coat of flexcement.