Deer Hair

[fullfin]

I am a less than fully competent fly tyer in terms of both experience and skill. They usually catch fish though I'm a recent convert to deer hair as a wing and/or hackle material. My problem is that for sizes below about 16, my supplies are maybe too coarse.

Any advice on the type of hair I should be looking for would be appreciated

[andy macbog]

Hiya,

Coastal deer hair is the stuff you are looking for. Very much finer than the usual and available in a range of very attractive colours . . . . .

Andy

[gus262]

Originally Posted by andy macbog

HIya,

Coastal deer hair is the stuff yoiu are looking for. Very much finer than the usual and available in a range of very attractive colours . . . . .

Andy

Couldn't agree more. Coastal is great for 14's downwards. Don't overlook other types of hair for dry fly wings either though, especially if you're struggling with deer on the smaller sizes. And most importantly, whenever possible get the patch of hair out of the bag and handle it before buying - I've found some wee gems that I'd have normally walked straight past, just going by what was written on the label.

[fullfin]

Thanks for the pointer guys, I'll be straight onto it!

[Covenantor]

Hi guys, noticed the thread about tying small flies with Deer Hair and it got me thinking.
I once had the occassion to be the verifier for Jim Fairgreaves on the Tummel at a heat of the SANA River Championships.
Jim is a reknowned [was going to use infamous?] Scottish International Fly-fisherman and as a reward he gave me the fly that took his haul of 4 fish.
I recall a few years ago that someone had written a book on the successful scottish paterns and this fly was in it.
Sorry if this is hijacking the thread but the fly was a deer hair dry on a 14 hook upright in a klinkhammer style with some fine Hare's ear dubbing.
Does anyone have a pattern for this fly or indeed know the book to which it is referred to?
Sorry if it's vague but obliged for your help in advance?
Cheers
Eddie