Card of Material for fly tying – various selections Gordon Griffiths

# **How to Choose Card of Material for Fly Tying – Various Selections by Gordon Griffiths**

Fly tying is an essential skill for any serious angler, and selecting the right materials can make the difference between a successful catch and a frustrating day on the water. One of the most versatile and widely used materials in fly tying is **card of material**, often referred to as **dubbing brushes** or **synthetic/natural fiber blends**. These materials provide texture, movement, and lifelike appearance to flies, making them irresistible to fish.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of **card of material** available, their applications, and expert recommendations from **Gordon Griffiths**, a renowned fly-tying specialist. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced tier, understanding these materials will help you craft more effective flies.

—

## **1. Understanding Card of Material in Fly Tying**

A **card of material** typically consists of fine fibers—either natural or synthetic—that are blended and pressed onto a card for easy storage and use. These fibers are used to create **dubbing loops**, **brush flies**, and **streamer bodies**, offering durability and lifelike movement in the water.

Key characteristics to consider when choosing a card of material:
– **Fiber Length** – Shorter fibers are ideal for small nymphs, while longer fibers work well for streamers.
– **Texture** – Some materials are soft and supple, while others are stiff for better durability.
– **Color & UV Reflectivity** – Certain materials enhance visibility underwater, attracting more strikes.

—

## **2. Types of Card of Material for Fly Tying**

### **A. Natural Fibers**
Natural materials like **hare’s mask, rabbit fur, and squirrel tail** have been used for centuries in fly tying. They offer excellent water absorption and a lifelike movement that synthetic materials sometimes struggle to replicate.

– **Hare’s Ear Dubbing** – A classic choice for nymph patterns.
– **Rabbit Fur Strips** – Perfect for Woolly Buggers and streamers.
– **Squirrel Tail Blends** – Great for emerger patterns.

### **B. Synthetic Fibers**
Synthetic materials, such as **Antron, Ice Dub, and UV Flashabou**, provide durability, vibrant colors, and added flash to attract fish in various water conditions.

– **Antron Dubbing** – Lightweight and floats well, ideal for dry flies.
– **Ice Dub** – Offers a subtle shimmer, great for midge and nymph patterns.
– **UV Flashabou** – Enhances visibility in low-light conditions.

### **C. Hybrid Blends**
Many modern fly tiers prefer **hybrid blends**, combining natural and synthetic fibers for the best of both worlds. These blends offer **buoyancy, durability, and lifelike movement**.

– **Hare’s Ear Plus** – A mix of natural hare’s fur and synthetic flash.
– **Superfine Dubbing** – A fine blend for delicate patterns like midges.

—

## **3. Gordon Griffiths’ Expert Recommendations**

Renowned fly-tying expert **Gordon Griffiths** emphasizes the importance of matching the material to the fly’s purpose:

– **For Dry Flies** – Use **fine, sparse dubbing** like Superfine or Antron to maintain buoyancy.
– **For Nymphs & Wet Flies** – Opt for **natural hare’s ear or UV Ice Dub** for a subtle, buggy appearance.
– **For Streamers** – **Rabbit strips or synthetic brush materials** provide excellent movement.

Griffiths also suggests experimenting with **UV-reactive materials** in murky water, as they increase visibility and trigger aggressive strikes.

—

## **4. Where to Buy Quality Card of Material**

If you’re looking for premium fly-tying materials, **KyleBooker** offers a wide selection of **natural, synthetic, and hybrid dubbing cards** designed for all fly patterns. Their **high-quality blends** ensure durability and effectiveness on the water.

Visit **[KyleBooker’s website](#)** to explore their range of fly-tying materials and elevate your fly-fishing game!

—

## **Conclusion**

Choosing the right **card of material** is crucial for successful fly tying. Whether you prefer **natural fibers, synthetics, or hybrid blends**, understanding their properties will help you craft flies that mimic real insects and attract more fish. With insights from **Gordon Griffiths** and high-quality materials from **KyleBooker**, you’ll be well-equipped to tie flies that perform in any fishing scenario.

**Happy tying, and tight lines!** 🎣