Wing

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


upright calf hair wing (dry fly)


swept elk hair wing (dry fly)

 

 Wings on flies are designed to represent the full range of wing types found in the natural insect world.  "Dry flies" have upright wings that resemble the fully formed flying tools of adult insects.  Wet flies exhibit the swept-back shape of winged insects found underwater.  Immature insect wing forms are imitated by wing pads or short extensions of emerging wings.

A wide variety of materials is used to make wings on flies: bird feathers (wing quill & flank), animal hair & fur; synthetics; nylon; antron; wool; etc. The selection of which of the various materials used in tying a fly is based upon whether the fly is made to float (dry fly), sit in the surface film (emerger), or sink (nymphs & streamers).

Materials that repel water or are water resistant are used for floating flies.  Those that absorb water are used with sinking flies.


upright duck quill wing (dry fly)


swept back feather wing (wet fly)

 

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