Actually I think there is a place for both types. Clearly if the goal is to have a fly or nymph that doesn't absorbe water then the plastic or rubber types would be the material of choice. But, as I have read there are a number of recipes that call for rafia or natural Swiss straw for which the material that I presented, would be used.
I also have and use several of the varieties of "Flashback" and "Scudback". All have their place and usage.

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Michael (Wooly) Woolum
State Certified Hunter Education Instructor
Hickory, MS