Fulling Mill Bug Back
The Bug Back is the ultimate shellback material, designed for creating realistic and natural-looking insect bodies on fly patterns.
Available in a mix of single and mottled colours, this paper-backed sheet offers ease of cutting. Remove the paper before tying the material into your fly.
Features 12 colours in the range, with a translucent and durable construction that holds up well under use.
Perfect for shellbacks on patterns such as shrimps and Czech nymphs. It can also be wound onto small nymphs to create attractive segmented bodies.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 65mm x 250mm |
| Quantity | 1 sheet |
| Material Type | Paper-backed shellback |
| Colour Options | 12 colours (single and mottled) |
| Translucency | Translucent |
FAQ
Can the paper backing be removed before use?
Yes, the paper backing can be easily removed before tying the bug back into your fly pattern.
Is the material suitable for use on small nymphs?
Yes, the bug back can be wound onto small nymphs to create a natural segmented body.
What types of fly patterns work best with bug back?
It is ideal for shellbacks on shrimps and Czech nymphs, and can be used to create realistic insect bodies on various nymph patterns.


Carol Sharp –
The bug back is very easy to cut and fits perfectly on my shrimp patterns. The translucent quality gives a natural look, and the mottled colours look great on the nymphs.
Anthony Morgan –
I’ve used this for several Czech nymph patterns and it holds up well. The paper backing makes cutting simple and the colour variation adds realism.
Thomas Taylor –
Good quality material, slightly more translucent than expected. Works well on small nymphs when wound properly. A bit pricey but worth it for the detail.
Katherine Dickens –
Perfect for creating realistic shellbacks. The 12 colour options allow for a lot of variation, and it’s easy to work with during tying.