Troutline Squirrel Hybrid Dubbing

Trout Line Squirrel Hybrid Dubbing is a proven, best-selling blend developed to give fly tiers one material that can do “almost everything” — from slim nymph bodies to buggy thoraxes — while still looking natural and alive in the water. By combining approximately 50% squirrel with around 50% Transylvanian hare, and keeping part of the squirrel in its natural, undyed fibers, we created a distinctive “salt & pepper” effect: subtle contrast, depth, and micro-shades that mimic real aquatic insects.

Why this dubbing works so well in the water

• Natural translucency and depth: squirrel fibers bring a slightly silky, lively look; hare adds matte, buggy texture. Together they produce a body that looks clean yet natural, not flat.

• High “bugginess” without bulk: the blend gives movement and texture while still allowing thin bodies on small hooks.

• Salt & pepper contrast: mixing dyed fibers with a portion of natural squirrel creates soft highlights and darker points, helping the fly read as “alive” under changing light and in different water clarities.

Where it excels

This is a true all-round dubbing, especially strong for:

• Medium and small nymphs (slim bodies, collars, full thoraxes)

• Emergers (natural buggy profile, great for transitional stages)

• Wet flies (soft movement and a natural sheen)

• Dry flies (thorax dubbing for duns, CDC dries, and technical patterns)

Easy to use, consistent results

Squirrel Hybrid Dubbing dubs onto the thread quickly and cleanly, so you can build anything from a tight, smooth noodle to a spiky thorax depending on your technique (tight twist for slim bodies, looser dubbing loop / lighter tension for more “legs” and texture).

How we make it (quality process)

To keep the material consistent and premium, every batch is prepared with attention to detail:

• Fibers are hand-cut with fine scissors for control and uniformity

• Only tanned skins are used (clean, stable fibers)

• Fibers are washed in hot water (approx. 80–90°C) before blending, for a very clean and bright dubbing

• We air-dry carefully and use an air-mixing process to preserve the natural structure and avoid “crushed” fibers

• Dyeing and final mixing are done at the end to lock in the intended shade balance and the salt & pepper look

The result

A dubbing that ties easily, fishes naturally, and delivers a fly that looks attractive, buggy, and realistic at the same time — a blend we rely on for nymphs and emergers, and also for thoraxes on many dry fly styles.