Lyla Lindsey
Australian possum fur is a versatile material used in fly fishing. It is used for tying flies for wet flies, nymphs, midges, and streamers. The fur is soft and easy to spin, with a nice gradation of colour. The body fur is great for dubbing, and the tail fur is used for wings or mixed with softer body fur to make a spikey dubbing. The fur is also used to make emergers, which are popular during dun hatches. When using possum fur, it is important to consider the type of thread used for tying, as well as the treatment of the fur to prevent insect damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Australian possum fur is a widely used material for fly hooks. |
| Properties | Soft, easy to spin, and available in a range of natural and dyed colors. |
| Uses | Absorbs water well, making it suitable for wet flies, nymphs, midges, and streamers. Can be used for dubbing, wings, or mixed with softer body fur for spikey dubbing. |
| Suggested Alternatives | Raccoon, fox, muskrat, beaver, or seal fur. |
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What You'll Learn
Using the pelt or tail
Australian possum fur is a versatile material that can be used for a wide range of fly-tying applications. It is particularly useful for wet flies, nymphs, midges, and streamers. The pelt, or body fur, can be used for dubbing, and the tail fur is ideal for wings. Combined, the pelt and tail can create a nice spikey dubbing.
When using the pelt or tail for fly-tying, there are several preparation methods to consider. Some people freeze the fur to preserve it and prevent damage from insects or other critters. Others microwave it, although it is unclear if this could damage the fur. Some fly-tiers use flea collars, "no-pest strips", or moth crystals to protect their materials.
It is also important to consider the type of thread used when tying with possum fur. Threads like Danville Monocord and Gudebrod are unbonded, meaning they lie flat when wound around a hook, which makes them easier to split for dubbing purposes. Bonded threads, like UNI thread, remain round as they are wound and are more difficult to split.
When using the pelt or tail fur for dubbing, it can be blended with other synthetic materials to create different colours and textures. Possum fur can be dyed or bleached to achieve the desired colour, although some colours, like black, can be hard to find and expensive. Possum fur can also be substituted with fur from other animals, such as raccoon, fox, or beaver, although the colours and properties of the fur may differ.
Overall, using Australian possum pelt or tail fur for fly-tying provides a wide range of options for creating natural-looking flies. With its soft texture and wide range of colours, it is a versatile material that can be adapted to various patterns and applications.
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Absorbency and breathability
Australian possum fur is a versatile material used for tying flies. It is soft, easy to spin, and blends well from gradation of colour. The fur is also absorbent, allowing it to absorb water well and ensuring that flies created with it always look natural. This absorbency quality of Australian possum fur is due to its natural fibre structure, which effectively draws moisture away from the body and into the centre of the fibre. This prevents the fur from freezing and makes it extremely warm.
The hollow fibre structure of the fur also contributes to its breathability, making it a good insulator while remaining lightweight. Possum fur is estimated to be 8% warmer and 14% lighter than wool. This characteristic has led to a surge in the sales of possum fur products, including its use in creating Possum Merino knitwear. The combination of Possum fur and merino wool creates a blended product that is exceptionally soft and warm.
The absorbency and breathability of Australian possum fur make it an ideal material for tying flies. Its ability to absorb water helps to create realistic-looking flies, while its breathability ensures that the flies are lightweight and effective. Possum fur is also a durable and versatile material, suitable for a range of fly patterns, including wet flies, nymphs, midges, and streamers.
When using Australian possum fur for fly-tying, it is important to consider the specific techniques and methods to ensure the best results. The fur can be spun in a dubbing loop to add finishing touches or dubbed on its own to create the body of the fly. The blend of underfur and guard hairs in the possum fur adds to the realism and effectiveness of the finished fly.
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The right type of thread
When it comes to choosing the right type of thread for tying Australian possum fur on a fly hook, there are several factors to consider. The thread you select will play a crucial role in the overall durability and appearance of your fly-tying creation. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Bonded vs. Unbonded Threads:
Two primary types of threads used in fly tying are bonded and unbonded threads. Bonded threads, such as UNI thread, are treated to maintain their round shape as you wind them around the hook. This makes them easier to work with, especially for beginners. On the other hand, unbonded threads like Danville Monocord and Gudebrod lie flat when wrapped around the hook, offering a different aesthetic. Unbonded threads are also much easier to split, making them ideal for creating "spikey" dubbing effects.
Thread Size:
The size of the thread you choose will impact the overall proportions and durability of your fly. For smaller flies, you'll typically use a finer thread, like a #16 or smaller, to create a delicate appearance and ensure the thread doesn't overwhelm the fly pattern. For larger flies or when using bulkier materials, a thicker thread may be more appropriate.
Thread Colour:
Selecting the right thread colour is essential to achieving a natural and lifelike appearance for your fly. You can choose a thread colour that blends seamlessly with the possum fur, creating a subtle base for the fur to sit on. Alternatively, you can opt for a contrasting colour to create specific patterns or highlights within the fly design.
Thread Material:
The material of the thread is another critical factor. You'll want to choose a strong and durable thread that can withstand the rigours of fly fishing, such as abrasion from trees and rocks. Threads made from materials like nylon or polyester offer a balance between strength and flexibility. Additionally, consider threads designed to be water-resistant or hydrophobic, as they will help maintain the integrity of your fly in wet conditions.
Specialised Threads:
Depending on your specific needs, you may want to explore specialised threads. For example, if you're creating wet flies, you can use a water-repellent thread designed to resist water absorption and maintain the shape of your fly even when submerged. On the other hand, if you're creating dry flies, a highly absorbent thread can help the fly stay afloat more easily.
In summary, selecting the right type of thread for tying Australian possum fur on a fly hook involves considering factors such as bonded vs. unbonded threads, thread size, colour, material, and specialised options. Remember, the thread you choose will significantly impact the durability, appearance, and functionality of your finished fly.
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Colour and dyeing
Colour is an important consideration when tying flies, as the colour of the fur will be determined by the type of fly you are tying. For example, light-coloured fur is typically used for dry flies, whereas nymphs and streamers use longer, darker fur.
When it comes to Australian possum fur, it is available in a wide range of natural and dyed colours. The natural colour of the fur has a unique sheen that is maintained even after dyeing, which is ideal for creating movement in the water. The colour and dyeing process of the fur can also be used to create different effects and patterns, with some tiers opting to dye or bleach the fur themselves to achieve the desired colour.
Tiers can purchase possum fur that has already been dyed, or they can source undyed fur and dye it themselves. This allows for custom colours and a wider range of options. The type of dye and method used to colour the fur can vary, with some tiers opting for natural methods like moth crystals like flea collars or “no-pest strips”, while others may use commercial fabric dyes.
When choosing a colour for your Australian possum fur fly, it is important to consider the natural food source of the fish you are targeting. The colour of the fly should imitate the fish's natural prey to increase the chances of a catch. For example, a fly designed to imitate a mayfly nymph will be tied differently than one designed to imitate a grasshopper.
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Where to buy
Australian possum fur is a versatile material for fly tying, commonly used for tying hex nymphs, wet flies, and more. It is known for its soft texture and ease of spinning, with colours that blend well. If you are looking to purchase Australian possum fur for your fly-tying needs, here are some places to consider:
Trident Fly Fishing
Trident Fly Fishing offers Hareline Ozzie Possum Fur, a popular choice for fly tyers due to its versatility and range of natural and dyed colours. The fur is suitable for various patterns, including wet flies, nymphs, midges, and streamers. The product is available in different sizes, including a large piece, to suit your requirements.
J. Stockard Fly Fishing
J. Stockard Fly Fishing offers Australian opossum fur known for its softness and ease of spinning. The fur is said to blend well, with a nice gradation of colour, making it a great choice for wings, tails, and dubbing material. They offer free shipping on all US orders over $100, so it's a great option for US-based buyers.
FishUSA
FishUSA sells Wapsi Australian Opossum Fur, which is renowned for its soft texture and ease of spinning. The natural colour variations in the fur blend nicely, making it a favourite among fly tyers for hex nymphs. The quantity per pack is approximately 3 1/2 to 4 square inches, providing a generous amount for your fly-tying projects.
EBay
EBay, the popular online marketplace, is also a great place to find Australian possum fur for fly tying. Sellers like Fly Artist and Hareline Dubbin, Inc. offer a range of products, including the Ozzie Possum Fur Piece, specifically for fly tying. eBay offers a convenient platform to compare prices, read reviews, and benefit from competitive shipping options and secure packaging.
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Frequently asked questions
Australian Brushtail possum fur is a widely used material for fly hooks. Raccoon is a good substitute for possum fur, as is fox fur.
You can buy Australian possum fur from specialist fishing shops, eBay, furriers, flea markets, hunters, and roadkill.
Australian possum fur is available in a range of natural and dyed colours. Black dyed possum fur is particularly popular but can be hard to find.
Bonded threads like UNI thread will remain round as you wind them onto a hook, whereas unbonded threads like Danville Monocord will lie flat. Unbonded thread is easier to split for dubbing purposes.
Some people freeze their fur, microwave it, or use moth crystals to prevent insect damage.
