Wapsi Ostrich Plumes

Due to import restrictions, this item will not ship outside of Canada.

Wapsi – Ostrich Plumes – Soft, flowing fibers for wings, bodies, and fly accents.

Wapsi Ostrich Plumes are a classic natural fly-tying material, valued for their fine, soft fibers that add lifelike movement and subtle texture to flies. Perfect for gills, tails, bodies, and collars, ostrich herl creates a natural buggy look that fish find irresistible. Their natural shimmer and mobility make them especially effective on nymphs, wet flies, streamers, and classic salmon patterns. Easy to use and versatile, ostrich plumes can be wrapped, dubbed, or tied in as accents to enhance nearly any pattern. Available in natural and dyed colours, they remain a timeless and reliable choice for tiers of all skill levels. Shop online or visit Drift Outfitters in Toronto for expert advice and fast shipping across Canada.

Q: What are fly tying feathers used for?
A: Feathers are one of the most versatile and essential materials in fly tying. They’re used to create wings, tails, hackle collars, and bodies that give flies movement, shape, and lifelike appearance. From delicate dry flies to large streamers, feathers bring natural action and realism to your patterns.

Q: What types of feathers are used in fly tying?
A: Common feather types include hackle (rooster and hen), marabou, CDC (Cul de Canard), pheasant tail, partridge, mallard, peacock, and turkey. Each has unique qualities that suit different fly styles and techniques.

Q: What’s the difference between rooster and hen hackle?
A: Rooster hackle has long, stiff fibers ideal for dry fly collars and hackles that keep flies floating. Hen hackle is softer with webbing that moves beautifully in the water, making it perfect for nymphs, wets, and soft hackle flies.

Q: What is CDC and why is it popular?
A: CDC (Cul de Canard) feathers come from near a duck’s preen gland and are naturally buoyant. They trap air and repel water, making them exceptional for dry flies and emergers.

Q: How do I prepare feathers for tying?
A: Strip or trim excess fibers from the stem, align the tips, and secure them with thread or a feather clamp. For soft hackle patterns, you can also preen the fibers backward before wrapping to ensure a clean collar.

Q: Are natural feathers better than synthetic substitutes?
A: Natural feathers offer unmatched movement, texture, and appearance. However, synthetics are durable, consistent, and often more affordable. Many modern tiers use both depending on the pattern.

Q: Where do fly tying feathers come from?
A: Feathers are sourced ethically from domestic birds or game species. Top suppliers like Whiting Farms, Hareline, Wapsi, and Veniard maintain high standards for sustainability and quality.

Q: Why carry fly tying feathers at Drift Outfitters?
A: Because feathers are the heart of traditional and modern fly tying. Drift Outfitters carries a curated selection of premium natural and dyed feathers for every style — from delicate dries to full-bodied streamers.