Woodcock and Porcupine Soft-hackle

[William Anderson]

Stefan, the warts are for you. I tied a few of these, no intention of photographing them. The warts are quite acceptable without magnification and just to fill slots in the box. The wraps at the bend aren't quite photogenic and the cut off of the porcupine guard hair at the hackle is not pretty. On the other hand, you can appreciate the lovely color, shade and complimentary tones, and especially the segmentation with the naked eye. This fly has been a producer for me for years. It's the macro scrutiny that causes pause. Screw it. I'll fish this one with pride.

#14 nymph hook.
14/0 thread
Woodcock hackle from just below the shoulder.
Porcupine guard hair in natural color wrapped over SHHAN.

Woodcock and Porcupine 2016




I found this from 2011. A different hook and very different proportions.

Woodcock and Porcupine 2011

[tie2fish]

More evolution .

[Smuggler]

That fly is screaming to be fished. C'mon spring!

[William Anderson]

More evolution .

devolving as well. If you mean "why do men have nipples".....then yes. Maybe this is evolution in a way.

[William Anderson]

That fly is screaming to be fished. C'mon spring!

No doubt. I told Gab this morning at 6 "I think I have to go find some water today." She just sighs and says if I can work it out, go ahead. She gets credit for being cool, knowing full well there is no possibility of getting away today. She's sneaky like that.

[Smuggler]

[Ron Eagle Elk]

William, Is that guard hair or flattened porcupine quill? I'm having a hard time with guard hair laying that flat.

[William Anderson]

Ron, the guard hairs are hollow, as you know but they lay out nice and flat when wrapped. I done moisten them or anything as you would with hen quills. Perhaps the tips of the guard hairs are more solid, but mid length collapses nice and smooth. Maybe more evident on the second pic. Quills are another matter, and I never really pursued any real use for them.

[William Anderson]

I doubt, but wonder if there is any difference between your western variety and our eastern porkies. I know the western pines are brighter, yellow compared to ours are darker and more gray brown toned. I assumed the color was the only difference but density might be different as well. If anyone uses McLean quills, they're just western porcupine which is easily dyed. I haven't fooled with them but wonder how flat they lay on the shank.