Rattlesnake skin, says Danbob, is also a darn fine fly-tying material. Those crazy trout cannot seem to get enough of the stuff. Mind you, harvesting snake backs and rattles for tying flies, can, at times be a fairly tricky endeavor. It's good to have a friend in the restaurant, boot, or hatband business willing to share remnants. In Dan's case, he gets his supplies on the highway.

To properly condition rattlesnake skin for tying purposes, soak it in tap water or clear blue agave tequila for a few minutes, then work the skin between your fingers until you realize that desired level of flexibility. Discard water. Drink tequila.