Chevron - CDC 2g packs - Special Offer

Cul de Canard (CDC) feathers are a prized material in fly tying, valued for their buoyancy, natural movement, and versatility. Sourced from the preen gland area of ducks, CDC feathers are coated with natural oils, giving them excellent water-repelling properties. This makes them ideal for tying dry flies, emergers, and other patterns designed to float or sit just beneath the surface.

The fibers of CDC feathers are soft and delicate, imitating the lifelike movement of insects on the water. They are commonly used for wings, legs, or collars in patterns like the CDC Comparadun, CDC Caddis, or Klinkhamer Special. Their light, airy quality makes them especially effective for imitating small insects such as midges, mayflies, and caddisflies.

When dyed, CDC becomes even more versatile, allowing fly tyers to create patterns that match specific hatches or water conditions. Dyed CDC is available in a wide array of colors, from natural tones like olive and tan to vibrant shades like orange or pink for attractor patterns. This allows for greater creativity and precision when designing flies for selective fish.

To preserve the buoyancy of CDC, it’s essential to use water-resistant dyes and gentle cleaning methods during production. Dyed CDC feathers maintain their soft texture and natural oil content, ensuring they perform well on the water.