# **Kylebooker Short Hackles – Fly Tying Materials – Brown Hackles, Very Small Fluffy Size: Are They Worth It?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable fly-tying materials. Recently, I came across **Kylebooker Short Hackles** in brown, specifically in a very small, fluffy size, and wondered whether they offer good value for money. After testing them out, here’s my detailed review on their performance, durability, and overall cost-effectiveness.
## **Quality and Texture**
The first thing I noticed about the **Kylebooker Short Hackles** is their soft, fluffy texture, which is perfect for creating realistic nymph and emerger patterns. The fibers are fine yet sturdy enough to hold their shape when wrapped around a hook. Unlike some cheaper hackles that fray easily, these fibers remain intact even after multiple wraps, making them ideal for delicate dry flies and small wet flies.
The **brown coloration** is natural and versatile, blending well with various aquatic insect imitations. Whether tying a **Pheasant Tail Nymph, Hare’s Ear, or a small Caddis pattern**, these hackles provide excellent movement in the water, enhancing the fly’s lifelike appearance.
## **Size and Usability**
The **”very small, fluffy” size** is particularly useful for tying **size 16 to 22 flies**, which are often needed for selective trout and panfish. Many hackle brands offer stiff or overly long fibers, making them difficult to work with on tiny hooks. However, the **Kylebooker Short Hackles** are appropriately sized, allowing for precise control when wrapping.
One advantage of these hackles is their **consistent fiber length**, which means less waste when trimming. Unlike bulkier hackles that require excessive trimming, these short fibers minimize material loss, making them more economical in the long run.
## **Durability and Performance**
After tying and fishing with several flies using these hackles, I found that they **hold up well under water pressure**. The fibers don’t mat down excessively, maintaining their buoyancy in dry flies and providing subtle movement in nymphs. Even after catching multiple fish, the hackles remained intact, proving their durability.
Compared to premium brands like **Whiting or Metz**, the **Kylebooker hackles** may not be as ultra-refined, but for their price point, they perform exceptionally well. If you’re tying flies for everyday fishing rather than competition-level perfection, these hackles are more than sufficient.
## **Price and Value for Money**
One of the biggest selling points of the **Kylebooker Short Hackles** is their **affordability**. While high-end hackles can cost upwards of **$20 per pack**, these offer a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing too much quality. For fly tiers who go through materials quickly, this makes them a **cost-effective choice**.
That said, if you’re looking for **ultra-premium dry fly hackles** with perfect stiffness and uniformity, you might still prefer pricier options. However, for **nymphs, soft hackles, and small dry flies**, the **Kylebooker hackles** provide excellent value.
## **Final Verdict: Are They Worth Buying?**
If you’re a **budget-conscious fly tier** who needs reliable, small-sized hackles for nymphs and emergers, the **Kylebooker Short Hackles** are a solid choice. They offer **good texture, durability, and natural movement** at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. While they may not replace high-end dry fly hackles, they are an excellent addition to any fly-tying kit for everyday fishing flies.
**Rating: 4/5**
✅ **Pros:** Affordable, soft texture, good for small flies, durable
❌ **Cons:** Not as stiff as premium dry fly hackles
For the price, these hackles are a **smart buy**, especially if you tie a lot of small patterns. Give them a try—you might find they become a staple in your fly-tying materials!
Would you like recommendations on other cost-effective fly-tying materials? Let me know in the comments! 🎣