We start by using only the finest quality bucktails purchased from the best sources. Since we have been in the fly tying material business for so long, we have identified the best suppliers and have had good long-standing relationships with them. They know that only the best will do, and as a result, we are able to purchase the cream of the crop.
Upon the reception of our bulk stock, we immediately inspect every bucktail and grade it according to its overall size and quality. The bucktails are then fleshed to remove fat and excess oils. Then they are carefully washed in a special solution that removes unwanted oils yet protects and conditions the hair for dying and/or bleaching. The dyeing process requires tremendous precision because every color has its own unique formula for the dye mixture, temperature and immersion. This expertise comes from 60 plus years of experience and is one of the reasons we can maintain color consistency throughout our wide range of materials.
Following the dyeing process, the bucktails are once again washed and further conditioned to remove excess d...
We start by using only the finest quality bucktails purchased from the best sources. Since we have been in the fly tying material business for so long, we have identified the best suppliers and have had good long-standing relationships with them. They know that only the best will do, and as a result, we are able to purchase the cream of the crop.
Upon the reception of our bulk stock, we immediately inspect every bucktail and grade it according to its overall size and quality. The bucktails are then fleshed to remove fat and excess oils. Then they are carefully washed in a special solution that removes unwanted oils yet protects and conditions the hair for dying and/or bleaching. The dyeing process requires tremendous precision because every color has its own unique formula for the dye mixture, temperature and immersion. This expertise comes from 60 plus years of experience and is one of the reasons we can maintain color consistency throughout our wide range of materials.
Following the dyeing process, the bucktails are once again washed and further conditioned to remove excess dye and keep them soft and supple. Special care is given during the washing and drying process to insure there is minimal hair loss or damage to the fibers.
After the bucktails have dried and have been at room temperature for a sufficient amount of time they are once again inspected to make sure they have been properly dyed, conditioned, and cared for. If they pass inspection, they are then packaged for sale.
In addition to the production steps mentioned above, we perform two additional (top secret) processes that help insure that our bucktails remain the best available.
Wapsi
AS WE APPROACH OUR 60TH YEAR IN BUSINESS, WE WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH YOU A LITTLE WAPSI HISTORY.
In 1945, Lacey Gee of Independence, Iowa began a fly tying business. photo of Lacey GeeWith some financial help and encouragement from the owner of Wapsi Produce Company, Lacey established the Wapsi Fly Company. Previously, he had been employed by the poultry processing plant, which provided a ready source of feathers. That, along with incentive, imagination and a good deal of skill in fly tying, became the basis for his new business. The name, Wapsi, was a natural, as the buildings housing it were located on the banks of the Wapsipinicon River.
Wapsi has introduced many fly tying products: Lead Eyes, Wooly Bugger Marabou, Dyed Grizzly Marabou, Soft Tanned Rabbit Skins, Dyed Pheasant Skins, Mylar Cord, three sizes of Ultra Chenille, Razor Foam, Thin Skin, Foam Popper Bodies, Fly Tails, Sili Legs, and Hour Glass Eyes. Such high quality dubbings as Camel, Antron, Angora Goat and Superfine are all processed at Wapsi. Premo Deer Hair, Lead Free Wire and Lead Free Eyes are also Wapsi firsts.
Today, Wapsi fills 62,000 square feet with plans to continue expansion. Wapsi is pleased to be a part of a growing industry where we can count our competitors as friends.
Ann and Tom look forward to the future. Three of their sons, Karl, Joe, and Eric, are now vital parts of the business. They plan to continue to be a part of Wapsi as it grows and changes.
We are proud of these accomplishments and plan to continue working hard to bring quality materials and ideas to fly tyers. You are our inspiration and motivation.