Hens hackles for size 16-18

[scott1967]

Hi all
I’m looking for really small hens hackle feathers possibly the tiny ones at the end of a hens cape
To tie on size 16 and 18 hooks
Dark coloured or ginger but would consider badger
Or possibly low quality cock hackle feathers
Can anyone help?

 

[dave b]

Scott I have found the Lakeland Whiting Farm Exclusive Hen Capes to be the best for smaller nymphs. I also use the Metz Grade 1 Furnace Hen Capes however for me the Whiting wins hands down on quality/value for money.

Orange tags tied with Metz Furnace size 18 2.5mm beads, Purple 3mm bead, Lakeland Exclusive, size 16 Hends wide gape BL144.

 

[taffy1]

There's also the possibilty you may find very much smaller & suitable feathers on wings, such as starling, sparrow or even game birds like snipe, woodcock etc. Just a suggestion.

 

[rabmax]

To tie smaller flies with oversized indian hen & game hackles.I often split my thread & insert hackle with the magic tool clip.I often do the same with oversized cock hackle on dry emerger flies.Similar to what dave does with the Czech thread fly.

 

[scott1967]

Thank you all for the replies

scott

 

[scott1967]

Does anyone have any used ends of hens capes (with the really small feathers) for me to try ?
Pic attached of the neck end I’m looking for
to tie 16‘s-20’s

Scott