Heres a neat technique for the perfect soft hackle. It can also be used as a wet fly hackle if less wraps are made. 

The whole idea behind a soft hackle is ‘Movement’ the more the better. The use of a hen hackle is preferred, as these are much softer than rooster hackles and generally shorter in the barb.

Choice and preparation of the hackle before use, is also paramount for the best result. Choose a hackle that is nicely balanced on both sides of the stem and has soft webby barbs.