best way to split two tails?

[jonnied17-2008]

Im happy to use a thread loop to split three tails but im struggling when splitting two tails, I find that even doubled up thread in between the tails doesnt do the job right. What do you guys use? something thicker like floss?

cheers, J

[rookstorm]

Why put two when you can easily do three ,trout cant count

[Hans Weilenmann]

J,

Flytying is all about choices. However, one needs to have a choice in order to make a choice

There are a fair few ways to do split tails, and I will select on the basis of the pattern, tailing material and hook size.

For example on a #16 hook or smaller I may use the tag end of the tying thread to the split.

I do not think there is a single answer possible to your question, but will kick back and read the thoughts others will share.

Cheers,
Hans W

[dwiltshire]

I find thread works fine. I cannot see that there is any difference between splitting two or three:

When you have three tails, the thread doesn't make contact with the middle tail - only the two angled, outer ones.

I use floss when I am after a hot-spot. Perhaps suggesting and egg-sac. Not because it is better at keeping them split apart than thread.

[jonnied17-2008]

Originally Posted by rookstorm

Why put two when you can easily do three ,trout cant count

ah but why tie on a fly with three tails when the trout are feeding on olives with two?

Originally Posted by Hans Weilenmann

J,

Flytying is all about choices. However, one needs to have a choice in order to make a choice

There are a fair few ways to do split tails, and I will select on the basis of the pattern, tailing material and hook size.

For example on a #16 hook or smaller I may use the tag end of the tying thread to the split.

I do not think there is a single answer possible to your question, but will kick back and read the thoughts others will share.

Cheers,
Hans W

thanks for the input hans.

Originally Posted by dwiltshire

I find thread works fine. I cannot see that there is any difference between splitting two or three:

When you have three tails, the thread doesn't make contact with the middle tail - only the two angled, outer ones.

I use floss when I am after a hot-spot. Perhaps suggesting and egg-sac. Not because it is better at keeping them split apart than thread.

thanks DW. Back to the vice... I think I was having trouble with some ultra fine microfibbets, they are fiddly at the best of times!

[dwiltshire]

Originally Posted by jonnied17-2008

thanks DW. Back to the vice... I think I was having trouble with some ultra fine microfibbets, they are fiddly at the best of times!

There are many different fibbets to use. The Orvis ones are very thin - still a 14/0 thread loop will help split them. Floss maybe a little too heavy.

I see from your SBS's you use paint-brush fibres... a little stiffer.

My favourite are from Paul Whillock - a little like the paint brush fibres...

[rookstorm]

I fish the clyde mate and the trout in there havent worked it out yet ,olives with three tailsthe trout in my avator never worked it out so three will do me

[jonnied17-2008]

each to there own mate, im not saying that two tails will work any better but I would like to imitate the naturals as best I can.

---------- Post added at 05:28 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:26 PM ----------

thanks dave, do you know where I could get some from? I've just ordered some nicely marked ones from docs fly box, they look the business hopefully they will be that good in the flesh.

[AndrewMWalker]

build up a little bum of thread at the back of the fly, when you tie in the tails you should be able to get them to pop apart.

[dwiltshire]

Originally Posted by rookstorm

I fish the clyde mate and the trout in there havent worked it out yet ,olives with three tailsthe trout in my avator never worked it out so three will do me

Whilst this cannot be disagreed with, from a personal perspective, I like to carry flies tied with both. When using flies with fibbets, I tend to fish dun patterns with three tails and spinners with two, especially on flat, glassy glides. In fast, riffled water, I think it's less important to the footprint.

It's a confidence thing: and whilst some may not be too worried about the number of tails (fish included!), if you feel happier and more confident knowing you've a closer imitation on your leader then do it. I believe, the more confident you are in a pattern, the better you will fish it... and the more success you will / should have

Originally Posted by jonnied17-2008

thanks dave, do you know where I could get some from? I've just ordered some nicely marked ones from docs fly box, they look the business hopefully they will be that good in the flesh.

Try here: Paul Whillock

I haven't heard much of Paul recently, but there have been rumours he's not been too well. Worth a try though.