New (ish) to fly tying

[fjonny]

I used to tie a few years ago and whilst my efforts were always a bit rough and ready they did catch quite a few fish. I haven't had the time again until recently so take it easy on the comments. They are supposed to be spiders of various types, tied from Mike Hardings book. I would welcome some constructive criticism though because I am aware that they are (much) less than perfect. Also I don't know if anyone can help but each time I tried to upload a different photo to my gallery it kept selecting the same image no matter which one I selected from my own file?

[blaydon buzzer]

Originally Posted by fjonny

I used to tie a few years ago and whilst my efforts were always a bit rough and ready they did catch quite a few fish. I haven't had the time again until recently so take it easy on the comments. They are supposed to be spiders of various types, tied from Mike Hardings book. I would welcome some constructive criticism though because I am aware that they are (much) less than perfect. Also I don't know if anyone can help but each time I tried to upload a different photo to my gallery it kept selecting the same image no matter which one I selected from my own file?

only 1 comment is that the hackles are a bit big other than that nice flies

[christy27]

Yep the hackles do look a bit long. Can't quite see properly but maybe they (hackles) could do with moving up a bit closer to the eye. Only a few small adjustments...well done.

Chris.

[minitrail]

Not bad considering you haven't tied for a few years.

Top One - the hackle looks a tad on the heavy side
Middle - Hackle is too long and too far back from the eye
Bottom - as the middle

Bravo Sir!

[fjonny]

Yes I agree, hackles too long and too far back from the eye, also rubbish photo. I've been tying with some old snipe and woodcock capes given to me years ago and most of the decent feathers are gone. So must get some new capes. I tied the Waterhen Bloa with the remains of what I think was a Moorhen I found when I went for a run last week but it was pretty well eaten apart from the wings so I'm not 100% certain. I made one good discovery recently. Mike Harding uses glass beads for some spiders and I know these are used for Grayling bugs. These are quite pricey from tackle dealers so I went to a local bead shop in Exeter called Bunny Yip! Felt a bit of an idiot perusing the beads with a load of adolescent girls but bought about 500 in assorted colours for £4.00, really good quality and just the correct size for size 14 -18 hooks.

[minitrail]

I often have the same experience in my local hobby craft! But, its worth that moment of embarrassment to save a few pounds!