Quote Originally Posted by bones View Post
often wondered why Polly Rosborough used such highly hydrophobic under furs like muskrat, beaver, etc for nymph bodies... seems counter intuitive
Many of his fuzzy nymphs were tied to be fished for specific hatches and often within the upper water strata. As I recall, he mentions several patterns were designed to be fished 1 to 3 inches deep. Also, many of his hooks were heavy, on the order of 2 XH or so.

While many of the preferred dubbing furs are from water animals, there doesn't seem to be an issue of the furs keeping the flies from sinking. Besides, several of Rosborough's dressings contained more than just muskrat or beaver or whatever. Frequently, he added "25% jack rabbit back" as a binder. Perhaps someone who has more information than I can respond. He also was fond of saying that "all fur is grist for the mill" and championed visiting dog grooming parlors for the combings. I think he said he really like apricot poodle trimmings, FWIW.