Fly Tying Hackle & Feather Reference Guide
Feathers and hackle give flies their shape, movement, and realism. Different feathers serve very different purposes depending on fiber length, stiffness, and webbing. This guide explains common fly tying feathers and how they are used.
Quick links:
Hackle types
Dry fly hackle
Dry fly hackle has stiff fibers that help flies float. It is commonly used on mayflies, caddis, and attractor dry flies.
Hen hackle
Hen hackle has softer, webby fibers and is used for wet flies, soft hackles, and collars.
Saddle hackle
Saddle hackle provides long, consistent fibers and is often used for streamers and repetitive dry fly patterns.
Common tying feathers
- Pheasant tail: nymph tails and bodies
- Partridge: soft hackles and legs
- Marabou: streamer tails with movement
- CDC: buoyant dry flies and emergers
- Turkey: wings, shellbacks, and bodies
Choosing feathers by fly type
- Dry flies: stiff dry fly hackle, CDC
- Nymphs: pheasant, partridge, turkey
- Streamers: marabou, schlappen, saddle hackle
Feathers for beginner fly tiers
- Pheasant tail
- Marabou
- Hen hackle