Hacklefly fishing glossary
A feather wound around the hook shank to create legs, movement, or flotation on a fly.
Hackle is one of the defining features of many classic fly patterns. Rooster hackle (stiff, web-free fibers) is used for dry flies to provide flotation, while hen hackle (softer, webbier) is used for wet flies and soft hackles to create lifelike movement.
Types
- Dry fly hackle: Stiff rooster cape/saddle feathers
- Wet fly hackle: Soft hen feathers
- Palmered hackle: Wound along the full body length
- Parachute hackle: Wound horizontally around a post