I prefer the traditional slim Pheasant Tail profile over the bulkier versions sold today as I think it is more subtle and effective. But it has two problemslack or durability and not enough weight to sink it well. In my version, I add two small black tungsten beads to preserve the slim profile (and avoid a flashy and bulky gold bead), and I bury the wing case windings under the beads and twist the pheasant tail for the body with the wire and a loop of thread so the body does not fall apart as easily. I also replace the traditional tails of pheasant tail fibers with bronze mallard, which has the right shade and better markings than pheasant tail. It’s now my go-to version of the Pheasant Tail Nymph. – Tom Rosenbauer.