There are times when a doubled body hackle creates more bulk than the tier wants, and a hackle stripped on one side creates the desired effect. This is true when tying Spey flies that have a tendency to fish upside down because of too much hackle.

The problem in stripping a hackle, however, particularly dyed hackle in dark colors, is that when the hackle is removed the natural color of the stem shows--usually white. This generally does not present a problem when the hackle is being applied to a dubbed body, but when a stripped hackle is being wrapped over a floss or tinsel body the lighter color of the stem will show and detract from the perfection we are seeking.

A fairly simple solution to the problem is the use of felt-tip pens. By matching a felt tip to the color of the hackle and carefully marking over the exposed stem, the contrasting lighter color is eliminated. There is such a wide range of colors and tones now available in felt-tip pens at art and craft stores that there is no problem in matching the hackle.

Your Black Ranger is progressing beautifully. The back end is perfect, the tinsels are secured, the hackle doubled and attached, when a rough thumb frays the floss.

Every tier has experienced it and everyone has searched for the solution to smooth fingers. Some have found satisfaction with gloves (Wayne Luallen uses silk gloves); I have not. My solution: a combination of pumice stone and a skin lotion by the name of Aquaphor.

The pumice stone is designed primarily for smoothing callused feet. The stone is quite rough and appears to be too coarse to bring about smooth fingers until you experience how beautifully it works. For years I used fingernail files, believing a smooth finish on skin required the same fine sanding that wood requires. This is not the case. The pumice stone brings about a very smooth finish, yet is coarse enough to remove rough spots, particularly by the corner of the fingernail. Moistening the fingers before sanding helps the process.

I then use Aquaphor. Aquaphor (NDC 10356-020-05) contains petrolatum, mineral oil, mineral wax, and wool wax alcohol. It is quite greasy, requires a very limited application, and takes about fifteen minutes of rubbing to fully absorb. I usually apply it about one hour before I intend to tie and at night before going to sleep, simply applying it to the tips of my thumb and index fingers.

Aquaphor is available as either a cream or a gel; I find the gel to be more effective.