Guides4Trout

When tying a tail it is most important to prepare the feather in the correct manner before the tying begins. I like to strip the barbules off one side of the feather so that it lays on the hook a little neater. Next, if you are right handed, and wrap the feather away from you, pull the barbs off the left hand side (while the feather is shiny side up). Then, tie the feather in to the hook by the tip and palmer it towards the hook eye. It is also important to keep the cupped side of the barbules facing towards the bend of the hook. Hen necks are good, but often short. Try looking for necks sold specifically for saltwater or bass bugs, they are usually cheaper, have longer feathers, and available in a wider color selection.