McGee's book has some good info in it.

You're off to a great collection Martin. Happy reading!

Welcome fishhead,
... and no better way to introduce yourself than with a couple ties. I like them all, but find the 4th one thoughtful and creative.

Personally I look for older "C" grade rooster hackle. The stuff that hasn't been genetically played with too much. It's not as webby or soft as the Conranch JV but softer than say a genetic hen from Whiting. Just look for a low grade rooster from a no name company or supplier. If your just...

I tie mostly with natural as well. Like Mark, I will throw in a touch of antron for a color effect and add just a hint of sheen. My reasons are 90% just for enjoyment. I like exploring and getting to know the characteristics of the natural materials. The further I dive into them the more I am amazed...

Beautifully buggy!

Gooooaaaaalllllll !!!!

You know after thinking about it more, I remembered him bringing it up at a 90 (perpendicular) before wrapping, I thought he was using his thumb but maybe that was Hidy in one of his descriptions...I will have to go check, either way the step of positioning the hackle perpendicular before wrapping i...

Leisenring was a stickler for durability. I believe he has it down to a science. I employ his method, but didn't always. I do believe his method is superior in durability, but not how it has to be done by any means. Your instructions are great Mark but they do leave off two import steps in Leisenrin...

I have found Alpaca to be similar to mohair wool. I don't know about the others you mention.

All wonderful examples Doug. Thanks for sharing.

Personally, I don't think neatness makes much difference on the size of flies we are tying mostly #12 -#18. As the fly gets bigger it might it might make a bigger difference either way. Although, when I was in college years ago, my most killing flies came out of the vice after about the 3rd beer. (r...