How to Use Hackle Pliers for Fly Fishing

Fly tying is both an art and a science. And like both disciplines, it requires a mastery of the proper tools. Hackle pliers are one tool that no fisherman should be without. Follow these steps to use hackle pliers when fly fishing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Make sure the finger opening is large enough to accommodate your fingers before buying a pair of hackle pliers.

2. Buy midge hackle pliers if you are just starting your fly tying tool collection. It is able to do everything larger ones can plus wrap hackle on smaller flies.

3. Pick pliers that can grasp the tip of the hackle firmly without slipping. Grab the hackle pliers at the round end. Squeeze the two sides of the hackle pliers together and the jaws will open. Release your hold on the two sides of the hackle pliers and the jaws will clamp shut. When you squeeze the two sides of the hackle pliers together, you will be able to grab the end of a broken thread.

4. Wait until you make the first half turn of the feather before attaching the hackle pliers. This allows the feather's convex side to face forward.

5. Continue winding after attaching the pliers to the feather on the underside of the shank.

6. Use hackle pliers to secure the end of the tying thread if it breaks while you work with it.

Tips & Warnings

• Wrap thread away from you. Avoid sloppy heads by not tying too closely to the hook eye.
• When tying dry flies, use the lightest weight, least-absorbent materials possible.

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