Where we try to use a minimum of specialized
tools, I think the following method of dubbing
with a spinning loop is easily learned. In words
it sounds complicated, but it isn’t.
The only tool we use is an E-Z Hackle Pliers or
a Radio Shack electronic test clip. (Be wary of
the E-Z knock offs that are sold by many mail
order houses. Many of them don’t work.)
-
With the bedding wrap on the shank of the hook
let the bobbin hang down with about 6 inches of
thread exposed. -
Clip the E-Z pliers onto the thread at the 3
inch point and let it hang there. -
On a light colored surface lay out your dubbing
in a streamline, or torpedo shape, keeping it
spread thinly. -
Pick up the bobbin with your right hand extending
it toward your chest. Put your left hand under the
taut thread so that the E-Z pliers is hanging down
between your middle and ring finger and let your
index and middle finger press lightly upward on
the thread between the pliers and the hook. -
Releasing the bobbin, pick up the prepared piece
of dubbing and lay it on top of the thread over your
fingers which are providing a “platform” to support
the dubbing. -
Pick up the bobbin and lay it up and across the
dubbing, over the top of the hook, take a couple
wraps and then let the bobbin hang free. -
While providing thread tension to the pliers
with your left index and middle fingers twirl
the pliers CCW as you look at the end of the pliers
(for right handers) to whatever degree of looseness
or tightness you want and then proceed to wrap the
noodle on to the hook.
As complex as this all sounds, it really works
because all the repeatability comes down to just
how you lay out the dubbing on the bench. It
also is especially advantageous when you don’t
want to crush down or entrain any guard hairs
in trying for a spiky body. ~ Ray Kunz
Please check out the Fly Tying Section, on the Bulletin Board, here at FAOL too.
If you have any questions, tips, or techniques; send them to
publisher@flyanglersonline.com
Originally published November 7, 2004 on Fly Anglers Online by Ray Kunz.