FLYMPH FORUM

Moorhen & Yellow
Hook: Kamasan B405 #12
Thread: Pearsall's Gossamer, yellow
Hackle: Moorhen wing covert, one side stripped
Abdomen: Tying silk silk, single layer
Rib: Mole, dyed cinnamon, into split silk
Thorax: Mole, dyed cinnamon

Cheers,
Hans W

That's a very understated but good looking fly, Hans. I like that one a lot. I could see it in a size 16 or 18 doing some damage on a local tailwater.

How much variation is there in moorhen feathers? Are all the hackles the same shade? It looks like a lovely feather to work with.

letumgo wrote:How much variation is there in moorhen feathers? Are all the hackles the same shade? It looks like a lovely feather to work with.

Moorhen is another name for waterhen, as in waterhen bloa. Hans didn't say whether the feather was an upper wing or underwing covert, but it looks like the underwing. They have a silvery appearance that's difficult to duplicate with any other feather. (Coot -- a close relative of the moorhen, comes close, but the barbs aren't quite as full.)

Most of the rest of the feathers on the bird are black. They can make some nice looking flies as well, but just don't have that magic quality as the coverts.

Bob,

The feather I used actually came from the top of the wing, though I considered under covert also. In the two pair of wings I have there is not all that much difference in color or hue. I would like to try body feathers also, but for the moment wings are all I have to use.

Cheers,
Hans W

Hans,
Let me know if you want some Moorhen body feathers, I am tying at the BFFI and will give you some of mine.

Bob,

I had to cancel my plans to attend and tie at the BFFI this year

I thank you for your kind offer - perhaps we can work out something else. A couple feathers mail easily

Cheers,
Hans W

No worries Hans,
Let me know if there is anything else your looking for.
PM me your address and I will send you some body hackles.
Rob

That is a lovely fly, Hans

I like that fly. It has a good shape and color scheme .
Neat pattern Mr. Weilenmann