Ewing Deceiver vs Dry Fly Saddle
In the world of fly tying, there are so many hackle options. I want to go over the differences between our premium hackle options: the Ewing Deceiver Cape and the Ewing Dry Fly Cape.
There are significant differences between these feathers, which can influence the materials you choose based on the application.
Disclaimer: These are natural fibers, so packs may vary slightly in size—these are average lengths.
Similarities: Both materials are available in a wide range of colors, including grizzly, solid shades, and bleached grizzly variations. The quality of the feathers is immediately apparent when handling either patch. Both capes have consistent coloration across different shades and individual packs. Symmetry is present in both the dry fly and deceiver patches. Ewing feathers stand out for their durability and over all uniformity across their line of products in general.
Deceiver Patch: Average length 4-7”.These patches have a wider overall feather with stiffer stems than the dry fly saddle. These hackles are perfect for applications such as splay tails and collars. Mostly used for muskie and saltwater streamer-style flies. They offer excellent movement in the water, though not as much as dry fly saddles. The deceiver patch is ideal for making flies like the Deceiver or Seaducer style flies.
Dry Fly Saddle: Average Length 5–10”+
The first notable feature of this material is its length. If you’re looking for a prime choice for longer, large streamers or as an accent for flies, this is it. It’s an excellent option for most trout-specific tying applications, including wings, parachute wraps, tails, and more. Additionally, this material works well in warmwater and saltwater flies, serving as long streamer material. The tips and midsection of these feathers are thin and do not provide a “full” body or add bulk to tails or flies. The base of these feathers is more webby with a fluffier texture at the lower section 1″-2″ up front the base). This webby section helps add bulk or profile to flies, allowing them to push water more effectively.
It’s perfect for adding accents to long tails, such as in flat-wing-style flies or larger muskie, sailfish, marlin, and other pelagic patterns where you need the full length. The fibers are highly flowy with stiff barbs. The dry fly saddle also has a very soft stem, making it easy to palmer down a fly smoothly.
