The Importance of Deer Hair in Fly Tying

When it comes to fly tying, the quality and type of materials used can make all the difference. One of the most important components of a well-tied fly is the deer hair, particularly the eye hair. In this article, we'll explore why deer eye hair is essential for creating neat, tidy, and well-balanced flies.

Deer eye hair is known for its unique properties, including its ability to be dense, yet float-like-a-cork when used in fly tying. The chalk white hair from the rump of a roe deer is particularly excellent for use in dry flies, as it provides a natural and realistic appearance. This type of hair is also extremely fine, making it ideal for winging dry flies.

In addition to its physical properties, deer eye hair also has a diversity of color and coarseness that makes it ideal for a wide range of fly patterns. The summer coat of the Norwegian roe deer, in particular, provides a stiff and fine hair that is perfect for use in spinning and clipping.

But what makes deer eye hair so special? One of the key reasons is its unique structure, which is filled with many small air-filled cells. This allows it to provide optimal insulation and hold its shape well, even in cold water.

In contrast, other types of hair, such as that from reindeer or caribou, do not have this same structure and may become brittle and prone to breaking under the microscope.

Overall, deer eye hair is a must-have for any fly tier looking to create high-quality flies. Its unique properties make it an essential component of many different fly patterns, and its availability in a range of colors and coarseness makes it a versatile material to work with.