Northern Game and Veniard Peacock Herl for fly Tying Natural and Dyed Colours

# **How to Choose Northern Game and Veniard Peacock Herl for Fly Tying: Natural and Dyed Colours**

Fly tying is an art that requires precision, creativity, and high-quality materials. Among the most sought-after materials for tying flies is peacock herl, prized for its iridescent sheen and versatility. Two of the most reputable brands in the fly-tying world are **Northern Game** and **Veniard**, both offering premium peacock herl in natural and dyed colours.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the best peacock herl for your fly patterns, comparing natural and dyed options from these brands to help you make an informed decision.

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## **Understanding Peacock Herl**

Peacock herl comes from the eye feathers of a peacock’s tail. Its natural shimmer mimics the flash of aquatic insects and small baitfish, making it a staple in nymphs, streamers, and dry flies. The two main types available are:

1. **Natural Peacock Herl** – Retains the original bronze-green iridescence, ideal for realistic insect imitations.
2. **Dyed Peacock Herl** – Enhanced with vibrant colours (red, blue, purple, etc.), perfect for attracting fish in murky water or adding contrast to flies.

Both Northern Game and Veniard offer high-quality herl, but their textures, colour consistency, and durability differ slightly.

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## **Northern Game Peacock Herl: Features and Best Uses**

Northern Game is known for its durable, long-fibered herl, which resists breakage during wrapping. Their natural herl has a deep, rich sheen, while their dyed versions maintain excellent colour saturation.

### **Why Choose Northern Game?**
– **Strong Fibers** – Less prone to splitting when wrapped tightly.
– **Consistent Colour** – Even dye distribution for uniform fly patterns.
– **Wide Range of Dyed Options** – Including UV-reactive colours for added visibility.

**Best for:**
– **Nymphs (Pheasant Tail, Prince Nymph)** – The natural herl adds lifelike flash.
– **Streamers (Woolly Bugger, Zonker)** – Dyed herl enhances visibility in stained water.

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## **Veniard Peacock Herl: Features and Best Uses**

Veniard is a British brand with a long-standing reputation for premium fly-tying materials. Their peacock herl is slightly softer than Northern Game’s, making it ideal for delicate wraps.

### **Why Choose Veniard?**
– **Softer Texture** – Easier to work with for intricate patterns.
– **Brighter Natural Sheen** – More reflective under sunlight.
– **Traditional Dyeing Methods** – Subtler, more natural-looking dyed colours.

**Best for:**
– **Dry Flies (Adams, Royal Wulff)** – Soft herl wraps neatly without bulk.
– **Classic Wet Flies (Soft Hackles, Spider Patterns)** – Natural hues blend perfectly.

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## **Natural vs. Dyed: Which Should You Choose?**

### **Natural Peacock Herl**
✅ **Pros:**
– Realistic insect imitation.
– Classic, timeless appearance.
– Works in all water conditions.

❌ **Cons:**
– Limited colour variation.
– Less visibility in dark or murky water.

### **Dyed Peacock Herl**
✅ **Pros:**
– High visibility in low-light conditions.
– Adds contrast to attract aggressive fish.
– Creative colour options for unique patterns.

❌ **Cons:**
– May appear less natural.
– Some dyes fade over time.

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## **Final Tips for Selecting the Best Herl**

1. **Match the Hatch** – Use natural herl for imitating mayflies, caddis, and midges.
2. **Experiment with Dyed Colours** – Try red, purple, or blue in stained water for better strikes.
3. **Check Fiber Strength** – Northern Game for durability, Veniard for delicate wraps.
4. **Store Properly** – Keep herl in a dry, dark place to prevent fading.

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## **Conclusion**

Whether you choose **Northern Game** or **Veniard**, both brands provide exceptional peacock herl for fly tying. If you prioritize durability and bold colours, Northern Game is an excellent choice. If you prefer softer, more traditional herl with a brilliant natural sheen, Veniard is ideal.

By understanding the differences between natural and dyed herl, you can select the best material for your fly patterns and increase your success on the water.

**Tight lines and happy tying!** 🎣

*(This article is proudly sponsored by **KyleBooker Fishing Gear** – your trusted source for premium fly-tying materials.)*