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Step 1 – Attach the thread to the hook in the thorax area and proceed to lay a base of thread to the rear of the hook shank.
Step 2 – Wrap the thread forward about 4 wraps.
Step 3 – Tie in the prepared hackle by the stem with the fibers facing forward and the feather concave side up. Make flat wraps back to secure the hackle.
Step 4 – Wrap the hackle rearward using 3-4 turns and secure the tip. Next, wrap forward through the hackle with a couple turns ending your thread directly in front of the wound hackle.
Step 5 – Securely attach the chenille and move the thread forward stopping at about an eye’s distance behind the eye, tying in chenille as you go.
Step 6 – Follow the thread and wind the chenille tightly forward stopping at the thread point then secure the chenille.
Step 7 – Measure the mallard fibers and fasten them to the hook with the tips facing over the eye of the hook. The length of the mallard fibers should not reach past the hackle.
Step 8 – Carefully bend the mallard fibers back over the body of the fly. Use your thread to secure and set the fibers so they sit at a slight angle.
Step 9 – Finish the head and fly.
Finished fly.
