# **How to Choose Hen Capes Dyed & Natural Fly Tying – Cumbrian Fishing Supplies**
When it comes to fly tying, selecting the right materials is crucial for creating effective and durable flies. Among the essential components, **hen capes**—both dyed and natural—play a significant role in crafting realistic imitations of insects. Whether you’re tying nymphs, dry flies, or streamers, the quality and type of hen cape you use can make all the difference.
In this guide, brought to you by **KyleBooker**, we’ll explore how to choose the best **hen capes for fly tying**, focusing on both dyed and natural options available from **Cumbrian Fishing Supplies**.
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## **Understanding Hen Capes for Fly Tying**
Hen capes are prized for their soft, webby feathers, which are ideal for creating lifelike movement in the water. Unlike rooster capes (commonly used for dry flies), hen feathers have more flexibility and are better suited for wet flies, nymphs, and streamers.
### **Key Features to Look For:**
1. **Feather Density & Quality** – A good hen cape should have a dense, uniform distribution of feathers. Avoid capes with bald patches or uneven textures.
2. **Barb Length & Softness** – The barbs (individual strands of the feather) should be soft and slightly curved, allowing for better movement in the water.
3. **Color Consistency** – Whether dyed or natural, the color should be even throughout the cape without blotches.
4. **Skin Durability** – The leather (skin) should be pliable but strong enough to withstand repeated tying without tearing.
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## **Dyed vs. Natural Hen Capes**
### **1. Dyed Hen Capes**
Dyed hen capes offer a wide range of vibrant colors, allowing fly tyers to match specific insect hatches or create attractor patterns.
**Best Uses:**
– **Bright Attractor Flies** (e.g., Egg patterns, San Juan Worms)
– **Imitating Unusual Insects** (e.g., Chernobyl Ants, Hopper patterns)
– **High-Visibility Flies** for murky water conditions
**Pros:**
– Wider color selection
– Can be more visually appealing to fish in stained water
– Great for experimental patterns
**Cons:**
– Some dyes may weaken feather fibers over time
– Colors may fade with prolonged UV exposure
### **2. Natural Hen Capes**
Natural hen capes provide subtle, realistic hues that closely mimic real insects. These are ideal for imitating mayflies, caddis, and other aquatic insects.
**Best Uses:**
– **Nymphs & Wet Flies** (e.g., Pheasant Tail Nymph, Hare’s Ear)
– **Emerger Patterns**
– **Delicate Dry Fly Hackle**
**Pros:**
– More durable than dyed feathers
– Natural colors blend seamlessly into the water
– Preferred for traditional fly patterns
**Cons:**
– Limited color options compared to dyed capes
– May require additional materials for bright attractor flies
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## **How to Select the Best Hen Cape from Cumbrian Fishing Supplies**
Cumbrian Fishing Supplies is known for its high-quality fly-tying materials. When choosing a hen cape from their selection, consider the following:
1. **Intended Fly Pattern** – Match the feather type (webby vs. stiff) to your fly.
2. **Hook Size Compatibility** – Ensure the feather size aligns with the hooks you use.
3. **Brand Reputation** – Look for trusted brands like **Whiting Farms, Metz, or Collins Hackle**.
4. **Customer Reviews** – Check feedback from other fly tyers for consistency and durability.
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## **Final Thoughts**
Whether you prefer **dyed or natural hen capes**, selecting the right one depends on your fishing conditions and target species. **Cumbrian Fishing Supplies** offers a fantastic range of both options, ensuring you’ll find the perfect cape for your fly-tying needs.
For more expert fishing tips and gear recommendations, stay tuned to **KyleBooker’s** blog and explore our premium **fishing tackle collection** designed for anglers who demand the best.
**Tight lines and happy tying!** 🎣