I also tye winter flies from dead rabbit and prefer patterns in combos of black/purple, purple/wine, and orange/red. I wrap the hook shank with something flashy such as tinsel and tie on a section of straight cut rabbit on top, attaching it at the bend and about 3/8" behind the head. This strip should extend about 1/2" or more past the bend. Taper it to a long point. Then I wrap a short section of crosscut rabbit in about 2 turns for a hackle. Whip finish the head and coat with 2 part epoxy. I still use high end hooks like 7999's, but have had great luck with el cheapo Eagle Claw 1197's -just keep them sharp.