Q: What's the difference between neck and saddle hackles, and when should I choose one over the other?
A: Neck and saddle hackles are interchangeable feathers in many instances. The feathers of the neck, or cape come from a bird's back; saddles come from its flanks. They have structural differences that make them more suitable to certain applications. Neck hackles have stiff stems, more curvature, and broad and round tips, and they're not very webby. Conversely, saddles have thin stems, less curvature and pointy tips and are extremely webby. The characteristics of neck hackles make them perfect for tying splayed tarpon-style tails, while saddles work well for flies with palmered or wrapped bodies or legs and are usually the feathers of choice for Lefty's Deceivers (particularly for large versions). Neck hackles work for these flies as well, provided they aren't too deeply curved.
Another consideration is whether to use the modestly priced packages of strung hackles or the more expensive capes or a patch. Strung feathers are uniform in size, while entire necks and patches come in a range of sizes and are generally superior in quality. Strung saddles are short and broad and although useful, they're nearly impossible to match properly. They are also more labor-intensive because they tend to bend in the packaging (a warm water rinse and a flat surface restores the shape of most feathers).
I am often asked where to get good hackle, and the answer is wherever you find it. Keep looking and buy as much as you can when you do locate it. However, hackle hunting has become much easier since premium merchants like Metz, Whiting and Ewing brought saltwater-specific feathers to the market.
