How to Tie a Soft Hackled Wet Fly

Keeping a few soft hackled wet flies in the tackle box is a good idea. These flies are highly versatile and present a solid back-up fly when you can't figure out what else the fish are hitting. Learn the recipe-pattern for the soft hackled wet fly and use it to make custom size and colored flies when the seasons change, or when you step into a new river.

Things You'll Need

  • Fly vise
  • Forceps
  • Wet fly hook (any size)
  • 6/0 olive thread
  • Hare's ear or grey squirrel blend
  • Partridge feather
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Instructions

    • 1

      Grip the curve of the hook with a vise. Use forceps to grip the thread and begin making a series of coils around the hook shank, 1/4 the shank's length from the hook eye.

    • 2

      Add dubbing near the hook eye. Wrap it with thread to keep it on the shank.

    • 3

      Take the downy fluff from the partridge feather and place it onto the shank, extending toward the curve. Wrap the tip near the hook eye to keep it on the shank.

    • 4

      Wrap the feather around the shank three times. Use the forceps to get good purchase on the feather.

    • 5

      Push the feather forward to fluff up and make a circular collar around the shank.

    • 6

      Take the soft hackled wet fly from the vise.