Wapsi SLF Squirrel Dubbing

Wapsi SLF Squirrel Dubbing combines the naturally spiky character of squirrel fur with the brightness of SLF fibres. The result is a lively, slightly bristly body material for patterns where a perfectly smooth finish would look too plain. It adds surface texture and a visible flash without losing the irregular, mobile impression associated with squirrel. This makes the series useful for fly bodies that need a hint of legs, guard hairs or insect-like roughness.

Construction and use

Use it for nymphs, wet flies, scuds and other patterns that benefit from a textured body. Fine amounts can be twisted directly onto the thread; a dubbing loop is useful when you want a fuller, more pronounced halo. After forming the body, tease it gently with a dubbing brush or needle. This releases the squirrel fibres and lets you decide whether the finished fly should remain subtly shaggy or become distinctly spiky.

• Character: a blend of spiky squirrel fur and bright SLF fibres.
• Surface: irregular and bristled rather than uniformly smooth, with added brightness.
• Patterns: nymphs, wet flies, scuds and insect imitations needing a lively body.
• Handling: apply small pinches, then brush the twisted body to control the guard fibres.