Stretch Rib / Catgut

Translucent, stretchable materials for lifelike ribbed and segmented fly bodies.

Create natural, segmented bodies with stretch rib and synthetic catgut. These translucent, flexible materials mimic the look and behavior of real aquatic insects—perfect for nymphs, larvae, pupae, and modern Euro patterns.

Stretch Rib / Catgut

Stretch rib and synthetic catgut are popular materials for creating realistic, durable, and highly effective fly bodies. Their natural transparency and stretchability allow tiers to build segmented bodies with depth, shine, and lifelike taper—qualities that closely imitate real insect larvae and nymphs.

When wrapped over thread, dubbing, or colored underbodies, these materials produce a beautiful translucent effect that changes in the water, enhancing realism. The stretchy nature of these ribs makes them easy to work with and ideal for forming smooth, even segmentation on patterns like Euro nymphs, midges, gammarus, caddis larvae, pupae, and slim-bodied attractors.

Synthetic catgut offers a soft, natural-looking appearance reminiscent of aquatic worms, larvae, and caddis bodies. When wet, it becomes even more lifelike, taking on a semi-gelatinous look that fish find irresistible. Stretch rib provides crisp segmentation, durability, and versatility, making it a favorite among modern competition-style tiers.

These materials are excellent for:

  • Slim Euro nymphs
  • Caddis larvae and pupae
  • Midge bodies
  • Gammarus and scud patterns
  • Attractor nymphs
  • Realistic translucent bodies

Strong, flexible, easy to tie, and incredibly effective, stretch rib and synthetic catgut give your flies a professional, realistic finish that performs exceptionally well—especially in clear water or when fish are selective.