Ruby claret cape

[tomba]

I was wondering if any of you fly tyers out there can tell me where I might be able to purchase a ruby claret cape.Underghillie may remember a fly we used to use many moons ago called Mikes Molester.Well this fly was very effective in ruby claret, and was first tied in this colour by a lady from Ireland who was kind enough to give me part of a cape. Alas this sample has long been exhausted. Would appreciate any help in acquiring a cape of this colour.
Thanks
Tomba

[madkeen]

McHardys have veniard packets of light claret cock hackles that are cheap and might be a close match to what your after.
www.mchardys.co.uk/prodisp.php?prodcatind=1&subcatind=001&pageind=4

[corribspeycaster]

You have to dye the Irish claret yourself start by dyeing your cape with a really bright red when you see the colour taking then add your claret in a smaller amount depending on the amount of materials you are dyeing( it is a inexact art), there is another more complicated way going about on the net but this is the easiest, i use orco dyes or jaquards rather then veniards. This will give you the traditional Irish ruby red claret for the mccormicks or faughan shrimp you are after. if you are still having trouble send me your email as I know where you may be able to buy the premixed dye.
All the Best Aaron

[faughanpurple]

MK

Those light claret feathers of Veniards are nearer to magenta than what Tomba is looking for. The Clarets sold by the majority of retailers is closer to navy blue than the Ruby Red Irish Claret.

Corrib is right. A lot of guys take to dying their own, its a bit of a dark art a bit like trying to find the "Real" Fiery Brown.

If your not into dying and dont want to ruin good materials give John McLaughing at Lough Swilly Tackle a ring, as well as Pat Nolan Premier angling supplies or Frankie McPhillips in Enniskillen. All should be able to source what you need.

The last cape i saw that was in the right shade was through irish Fly tying but it was for trout dry flies, as is most of his stuff and no use to salmon flies. He had a great range of claret seals fur as well. I'm sure he could be able to get a cape for you though if the others fall through.

[tomba]

Thanks very much for the info folks. A great help.

Cheers
Tomba