First Ties...

[Jig'n4Crappie]

Thanks Stump Hunter, I appreciate your comment.

Skip, I think the problem with the appearance of trimmed feather is what you described. I didn't trim it @ the rear, but I am using the end of the feathers. This seems to work out for me sometimes (as in the 1st pic) with what I'll call a "good" feather that has a very small, pliable stem. However, other times when a feather is used that has a larger stem, I am getting the appearance of it being trimmed (as in the 2nd & 3rd pics). You are correct as I fished one yesterday with a large stem that had the appearance of being trimmed and it looked like a stick in the water with no action/undulation. Just to make sure I understand...you trim down each side of the feather stem, then form it from there. I made one attempt at that but it didn't turn out too good and the overall length of the formed feather was too short...maybe because I am using pin feathers? I appreciate the advice and please correct me if I'm not headed in the right direction.

Also, do these look too long? This a 1/32 jig with a #4 hook. I am gauging the length from a 2" Kalin Triple Threat Grub on a 1/32 head.

[Donald@CrappieLogic]

for your first ties i think they look great

[Crappiehappy]

nice work....

[Jig'n4Crappie]

Thanks Donald & CrappieHappy! I'm learning a little more each time I tie.

Donald, looking forward to checking out you new website!

[Micropterus salmoides]

I could tell that feather wasn't cut. That tip, or tip(s), will move and flow more freely than any other feather out there.
If you cut a tip off and have a thick stem to tie in, its gotta be bulk bou and not strung. Ive never tied in a bou tip that had a stem any thicker than that of a neck hackle. Save you're time, they fish exactly the same. I promise.
You're a natural, of course with the good help of your buds n neighbors. You should be thankful. I cant see anything outside of fantastic about them. Hope to see some pics of those fish next time.
Great work, I'm taking notes.

[Jig'n4Crappie]

Thanks Micropterus, I appreciate the info. You are right about the good help and I am thankful. This forum has been a great resource with a bunch of great people that don't mind helping others. I've done the bass fishing thing (including many tournaments and clubs over the years) and that is just something you don't get much of in that world..too much competition and money involved I guess. Thanks again and I'll remember the camera next trip. Take care down there in Louisiana.