Tail

Other fly parts:
hackle/wing/tail/
wingcase/legs/body/head


goose biots tail (mayfly nymph)


turkey feather tail (streamer)

 Tails on flies serve multiple purposes.  Of course, they are intended to suggest to the fish an appearance similar to the "real thing."  So, flies exhibit the same number, length and color of the tails of various naturals.

Tails also serve as "outriggers" for the fly.  They either enhance or diminish the floating abilities of the fly.  They may be of stiff material to keep the fly floating high and "on top" of the water.  Softer tail materials allow the fly to sink "into" the surface film.

Many flies have no tails.  This is because the natural has no tails, or, by being absent, the fly will be less buoyant and sink more readily.


rubber/latex tail (stonefly nymph)


hackle fibers tail (mayfly dry fly)

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