Angel hair is a popular fly tying material used in fly fishing, often for creating flashy, reflective effects in the fly patterns. It is a synthetic material typically made of fine strands of iridescent fibers. These fibers are designed to mimic the flash and sparkle that attract fish, especially in saltwater patterns or for certain types of freshwater species.

Here are a few key details about angel hair as a fly tying material:

1. Appearance

• Angel hair has a very fine, crinkly texture that mimics the look of natural materials like the scales of baitfish.

• The fibers are typically iridescent, reflecting light in different colors, which makes them look lifelike in the water.

• It is available in a wide variety of colors to match the baitfish, shrimp, or other prey species you're imitating.

2. Uses in Fly Tying

• Flash: Angel hair is often used as a flash material in the wings, tails, or bodies of flies. It adds visual attraction through reflection and sparkle.

• Sparsely: It's usually used sparingly since it is quite flashy and can be overpowering.

• Substitution: Angel hair can replace or complement other flash materials like Krystal Flash or Flashabou.

• Saltwater Patterns: It's especially popular in patterns like baitfish imitations, for species such as striped bass, redfish, and other saltwater predators.

3. Application Techniques

• It is commonly tied in small bunches or strands to avoid overwhelming the fly with too much flash.

• You can use it as a tail, body wrap, or even as an accent on certain fly types like streamers, baitfish patterns, and shrimp flies.