Feathers & Flies in Fishing

Feathers and flies are often used when fly fishing. The sport of fly fishing requires the angler to mimic natural insects using both synthetic and natural materials tied to a hook. Often these materials include feathers and fur.

  1. History

    • Anglers have used natural feathers including, turkey, goose and pheasant to dress flies since the early 1900s. These materials most effectively mimic actual insects because of their natural properties.

    Function

    • Feathers function as wing cases and tails for many fly imitations. The natural materials used to tie flies create an abundance of natural body segments.

    Time Frame

    • The time needed to tie a fly requiring the use of feathers varies from minutes to hours. The steps involved in tying a fly vary depending on pattern and individual proficiency.

    Size

    • Flies tied using feathers are gauged by hook size. In most cases, hook sizes utilizing feather dressings run from as small as a rice grain to as large as four inches.

    Considerations

    • When using feathers to create artificial flies it's important to consider the insect that you hope to imitate. Different feathers are used to create specific visual effects and motions.