Pheasant tails are one of the most common tying materials for good reason. They are abundant, often inexpensive, and serve a wide range of functions. It is useful to not only have a range of colors, but to also have a range of feather sizes. This can be achieved by not just buying individual feathers, but by purchasing pheasant tail clumps. Clumps contain the entire tail, and have feathers ranging from large to small. Large feathers tend to have longer and stiffer fibers, while the smaller feathers often have shorter, less stiff fibers. The fiber length from long feathers is ideal for wrapping bodies, while that of the shorter feathers make for excellent wing cases. By using varying feather sizes for certain tasks, one can maximize the utility of the material and cut costs significantly.

- Scott Hetzer, Eclipse Fly Co.