# **How to Choose Fly Tying Whiting Farms 100++ Pack Saddle Hackle Sizes 10-20 Golden Olive**
Fly tying is an art form that requires high-quality materials to create effective and durable flies. One of the most sought-after materials in fly tying is saddle hackle, and **Whiting Farms** is a brand synonymous with premium feathers. Their **100++ Pack Saddle Hackle in Golden Olive (Sizes 10-20)** is a top choice for fly tiers targeting trout, bass, and other freshwater species.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the right **Whiting Farms saddle hackle** for your fly patterns, ensuring you get the best performance and value.
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## **1. Understanding Saddle Hackle and Its Uses**
Saddle hackle comes from the rear section of a rooster’s plumage, providing long, flexible feathers ideal for dry flies, nymphs, and streamers. The **Whiting Farms 100++ Pack** offers a dense selection of feathers in **Golden Olive**, a versatile color that imitates mayflies, caddis, and other aquatic insects.
### **Key Features of Whiting Farms Saddle Hackle:**
– **Consistent barb length** for uniform fly tying
– **Durable and flexible fibers** for better movement in water
– **Natural sheen** for realistic insect imitation
– **Pre-graded sizes (10-20)** for precise fly patterns
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## **2. Selecting the Right Size (10-20)**
The **Whiting Farms 100++ Pack** includes feathers sized **10-20**, making it perfect for a wide range of flies. Here’s how to choose the best size for your needs:
– **Size 10-12:** Ideal for larger dry flies like **Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Stimulators**.
– **Size 14-16:** Perfect for **midge patterns, Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs), and small mayflies**.
– **Size 18-20:** Best for **tiny midges and Trico patterns**, requiring ultra-fine hackle.
If you tie a variety of flies, this pack ensures you’ll always have the right size on hand.
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## **3. Evaluating Feather Quality**
Not all saddle hackles are created equal. When selecting a **Whiting Farms pack**, look for:
✅ **Barb Density** – More barbs per inch mean better flotation for dry flies.
✅ **Stem Flexibility** – A strong yet pliable stem makes wrapping easier.
✅ **Color Consistency** – Golden Olive should have a natural, insect-like hue.
✅ **Length & Uniformity** – Longer feathers allow for multiple flies per feather.
Whiting Farms is known for genetic breeding that produces superior hackle, so you can trust their grading system.
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## **4. Why Choose Golden Olive?**
The **Golden Olive** shade is a must-have for fly tiers because:
– Mimics **olive mayflies**, a staple in trout diets.
– Works well for **terrestrials** like hoppers and ants.
– Can be blended with other colors for custom patterns.
Whether fishing spring creeks or mountain streams, this color is highly effective year-round.
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## **5. Tips for Storing and Maintaining Saddle Hackle**
To maximize the lifespan of your **Whiting Farms hackle**:
– Store in a **dry, cool place** away from direct sunlight.
– Use a **hackle guard or plastic sleeve** to prevent damage.
– Keep feathers organized by size for quick access.
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## **Final Thoughts**
The **Whiting Farms 100++ Pack Saddle Hackle in Golden Olive (Sizes 10-20)** is an excellent investment for fly tiers who demand quality and versatility. Whether you’re tying **dry flies, nymphs, or streamers**, this pack provides consistent, high-performance feathers that will elevate your fly patterns.
For anglers looking to stock their fly-tying materials, **KyleBooker** offers premium **Whiting Farms products**—check out our selection today!
**Happy tying and tight lines!** 🎣