# **How to Choose Fly Tying Materials: Veniard Hand-Stripped Peacock Quill (All Colours Available)**
As an avid fly fisherman, selecting the right materials for tying flies is crucial to creating effective and visually appealing patterns. One of the most versatile and sought-after materials in fly tying is the **Veniard Hand-Stripped Peacock Quill**. Available in a variety of colours, this premium material offers durability, natural iridescence, and flexibility—making it a must-have for any fly tyer.
In this guide, we’ll explore why **Veniard’s peacock quills** are a top choice, how to select the best quills for different fly patterns, and tips for incorporating them into your tying process.
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## **Why Choose Veniard Hand-Stripped Peacock Quill?**
### **1. Superior Quality & Natural Iridescence**
Veniard is a trusted name in fly-tying materials, known for sourcing high-quality feathers. Their **hand-stripped peacock quills** retain the natural shimmer that mimics the flash of baitfish and insects, making them irresistible to trout, salmon, and other game fish.
### **2. Durability & Flexibility**
Unlike lower-grade quills that may crack or fray, Veniard’s hand-stripped quills are carefully processed to maintain strength while remaining pliable. This ensures smooth wraps when tying **nymphs, emergers, and dry flies**.
### **3. Wide Range of Colours**
While traditional peacock herl has a green-blue sheen, Veniard offers **dyed quills in various colours**, including red, purple, orange, and black. This allows fly tyers to match specific hatches or experiment with attractor patterns.
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## **How to Select the Best Peacock Quills for Your Flies**
### **1. Consider the Fly Pattern**
– **Dry Flies (e.g., Adams, Royal Wulff):** Use thinner, more flexible quills for smooth wraps.
– **Nymphs (e.g., Pheasant Tail, Copper John):** Opt for slightly thicker quills for durability.
– **Streamers (e.g., Woolly Bugger, Zonker):** Wider quills add bulk and movement.
### **2. Check for Consistency in Stripping**
Hand-stripped quills should have **even thickness** along the length. Avoid quills with weak spots or excessive fraying.
### **3. Choose the Right Colour**
– **Natural Peacock:** Best for traditional patterns.
– **Dyed Quills (Red, Purple, etc.):** Great for high-visibility flies or matching specific insect stages.
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## **Tips for Tying with Peacock Quills**
1. **Soak Before Use** – Briefly dampening the quill makes it more pliable and reduces breakage.
2. **Use a Rotary Vise** – Rotating the hook helps achieve even wraps.
3. **Secure with Tight Thread Tension** – Prevents unraveling during casting.
4. **Combine with Other Materials** – Pair with **pheasant tail, CDC, or dubbing** for added texture.
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## **Final Thoughts**
Whether you’re tying classic **Pheasant Tail Nymphs** or experimenting with colourful attractor flies, **Veniard Hand-Stripped Peacock Quill** is an essential material for any fly tyer. Its **iridescence, strength, and colour variety** make it a standout choice for both beginners and experts.
For the best selection of **peacock quills in all available colours**, check out **KyleBooker’s premium fly-tying supplies**. Tight lines and happy tying!
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**About the Author:**
As a dedicated angler and fly-tying enthusiast, I test and review the best fishing gear to help fellow anglers make informed choices. Follow my blog for more expert tips on fly fishing and tackle selection!
Would you like recommendations on other premium fly-tying materials? Let me know in the comments! 🎣