Once the spring turkey season ends, many of us pivot to our local rivers and lakes to cast flies at fish. However, the thrill of your hunt does not have to end once the fly rod is strung. Many of the fly patterns attached to our leaders are tied with turkey feathers, and what could be a more rewarding full-circle experience than catching fish with flies made from the turkey you harvested? 

Turkey feathers, just like many upland birds, are quite versatile in the world of fly tying. Plucking a couple of handfuls of select feathers from your bird is enough to tie several seasons’ worth of flies. With a little insight into which feathers to save and use, you can create an array of fly patterns that will be cherished every time you open your fly box.