Soft hackle flies have stood the test of time in the world of fly fishing. Simple in design but incredibly effective, they imitate emerging insects and swimming nymphs with a natural motion that few other flies can match. Whether you're a seasoned fly tyer or just starting, soft hackles are some of the most rewarding patterns to tie and fish.

Royal Coachman Wet

What Is a Soft Hackle Fly?

A soft hackle fly is a type of wet fly that uses soft, webby feathers tied in as a collar behind the hook eye. These feathers move easily in the current, suggesting life and triggering strikes. Originally popularized by the North Country fly fishers of England, these flies remain incredibly productive on modern waters.

Brahma Hen

Essential Materials for Tying Soft Hackles

The beauty of soft hackles lies in their simplicity. You typically need only a few materials:

A wet fly hook (sizes 12 to 18 are common)
Thread (color depending on the desired pattern)
A body material such as silk, dubbing, or peacock herl
A soft feather, commonly partridge, hen, starling, or grouse

Optional materials include fine wire for ribbing and head cement for durability.

Hares Ear and Partridge

Choosing the Right Hackle Feather

Each feather creates a different effect. Partridge feathers are mottled and lend themselves well to general-purpose mayfly and caddis imitations. Hen feathers are softer and webbier, making them perfect for slow-moving water. Starling feathers are great for tying very small flies, while grouse offers a bold, speckled look ideal for an attractor pattern.

Commonly Used Hackle

Royal Coachman Soft Hackle

Popular Soft Hackle Variations

There are countless soft hackle patterns, but here are a few of the most popular:

: A classic for all-purpose use.
Partridge and Green: Effective during olive mayfly hatches.
Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail: Combines a classic nymph body with soft hackle movement.
North Country Spiders: Traditional English flies with sparse dressing and elegant simplicity.
Wet Flies: Classic patterns that have withstood the test of time (Royal Coachman, Quill Gordon, Pink Lady, Catskill, etc).
Hares Ear Soft Hackles: Proven pattern that works just about everywhere.

Hares Ear

Tips for Better Soft Hackles

Keep your flies sparse. One to two wraps of hackle are often enough.
Wet the hackle feather before wrapping to better control its fibers.
Match your thread and body color to local hatches, but don’t be afraid to experiment.
Try fishing these flies on the swing, dead drift, or as part of a two-fly rig with a heavier nymph.

Quill Gordon Wet

Final Thoughts

Soft hackle flies are a must-have for any trout angler. They blend traditional fly tying with unmatched effectiveness on the water. Once you tie and fish a few of them, you’ll understand why these patterns have endured for centuries. Whether you're trying to match a hatch or just want a fly that always seems to produce, soft hackles deserve a spot in your fly box.

Dyed Black Laced Hen