Hans Stephenson of Dakota Angler & Outfitter demonstrates how to tie a soft hackle fly pattern. Soft hackles have been around for hundreds of years and for good reason, they are very effective.
Many soft hackle patterns are very simple to tie and can imitate a variety of insects including most mayflies and caddis. As Hans mentions you can add a soft hackle to many of the nymph patterns you typically fish to give your favorite fly a little more life in the water.
One of my favorites is a soft hackle Hare’s Ear nymph. Fished down and across on the swing, soft hackles are also a lot of fun and a very relaxing way to fish.
Soft Hackle Material List
Hook: Tiemco 3769 size 12-16
Abdomen: Midge Diamond Braid
Thorax: Nature’s Spirit Emergence Dubbing, brown
Hackle: Whiting Brahma Hen
Enjoy!
