How to Tie a CDC Quill Fly | Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Fly Tying

Mar 26

This CDC quill fly is an easy-to-tie, effective pattern perfect for various fishing conditions. By using CDC feathers creatively, you get both durability and lifelike action in the water.

Materials:

UTC 70 thread (black)
Peacock quill fiber
Super glue
Uni Thread 0 (black)
CDC feathers (2 medium-sized)
Chinese red Uni floss (or preferred color)
Black Seals Fur (optional)
Flash material (optional)
Varnish (for finishing)

Step-by-Step Guide for Tying a CDC Quill Fly

Step 1: Prepare the Hook and Thread

Start by securing a hook in your vise. Attach the UTC 70 thread at the eye of the hook and wrap it around the shank to the point where the body will end.

Step 2: Attach the Peacock Quill Fiber

Take a single fiber from a peacock quill, removing the fine head. Use the side of the quill that lacks the fine fibers for a smoother body. Secure the quill to the hook with tight thread wraps, ensuring it's aligned with the hook shank.

Step 3: Build the Body

Apply a small amount of super glue to the quill to help secure it and make the body last longer. Wind the quill up the shank in tight, even wraps, until you reach the desired body length.

Step 4: Add Wing Buds

Switch to black Uni thread for the next step. Wax the thread, then attach the Chinese red Uni floss (or your preferred color) to the hook shank, forming wing buds. Tie them in using a figure-eight pattern and trim them to the same length. Flatten the floss slightly with your fingers to give it a more natural, spread-out look.

Step 5: Attach CDC Feathers

Take two medium-sized CDC feathers, one stacked on top of the other, and pull the fibers toward the hook eye. Measure the length of the CDC feathers to ensure they extend slightly beyond the hook's length. Tie them in at the front of the body with tight wraps, leaving space at the head for the thorax.

Step 6: Form the Thorax

Mix black Seals Fur and a touch of flash material, keeping it thin to avoid bulk. Tie this mix in as the thorax, securing it neatly just behind the CDC feathers. Stretch the materials to keep them thin, as too much bulk can prevent the CDC fibers from reaching the hook's head.

Step 7: Wrap CDC Feathers Over the Thorax

Bring the CDC feathers over the thorax and secure them tightly with a few wraps. Position the fibers evenly on both sides, adjusting them to sit naturally. Finish by wrapping a few more turns to lock the feathers in place.

Step 8: Final Touches

Apply a layer of varnish to secure everything in place. Trim the CDC feathers and any excess fibers, cutting them at an angle for a clean finish. Ensure the wing remains sturdy and the fly retains its lifelike profile.

Fly Tying