Quill Bodies

[BlueRaiderFan]

Can I tie all my usual dries using quill bodies, or is that not normally done? Not that it matters because I will tie them and fish them just to see if they are effective, I was just wondering if it was well thought of and effective. Thanks.

[silvercreek]

I don't know if I would do that Blueraider. Supposedly there is a group that wanders the streams looking for heretics like you. On discovery, their flies and equipment are confiscated and they are given a dunking until they renounce the practice. Seriously, I like quill bodied flies. They look good and do not soak up water. Their main shortcoming is the quill can be damaged by trout teeth. I cover my quills with superglue after the fly is tied. If using dyed quills, test it first to be sure the glue does not alter the color. Good luck, Silvercreek

[BlueRaiderFan]

Hey, you never know! I once got a spankin' on general principal! I hear tell ya gotta soak em in water for a few minutes too. Thanks for the tip on the glue. I will give it a shot.

[silvercreek]

I depends on the type of quill. Biots and peacock quill generally do not have to be soaked. Stripped hackle quill generally has to be soaked. strangely, I have gone the other way and have recently tied up some quill bodied soft hackles. I like the look. As you can see from my avatar, I like the quill bodied dries. regards, Silvercreek

[BlueRaiderFan]

They are quite nice. Very realistic.

[jeffnles1]

I like tying with quills. I'll have to tie some up this winter. If I'm able to make it to the mountains this spring some Quill Gordons will come in handy.

Have either of you guys substituted quill for moos main hair? I've tried it and the look is very similar.

I don't see any real advantage (breakes just as easily) other than something to try.

I do always put some clear nail polish over the quill body because it is so delicate.

Anyway, watch out for the fly tying police. If you're not careful, someone's going to go on the internet and tell you to take fly tying lessons because your fly isn't just like the one in the books.

Jeff