UTC Ultra Thread 70 Denier ｜ Fly Tying Materials, Tying Trout & Salmon Flies
Francis Haines 
# **Kylebooker UTC Ultra Thread 70 Denier | Fly Tying Materials, Tying Trout & Salmon Flies – Is It Worth the Price?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality tying materials that offer durability, versatility, and value for money. Recently, I came across **Kylebooker’s UTC Ultra Thread 70 Denier**, a popular choice among fly tiers for trout and salmon patterns. But how does it stack up in terms of performance and cost-effectiveness? Let’s dive into a detailed review.
## **Overview of UTC Ultra Thread 70 Denier**
The **UTC Ultra Thread** is a well-known brand in the fly-tying community, favored for its strength, smooth texture, and consistent diameter. The **70 Denier** version is particularly popular for tying medium to large flies, including streamers, nymphs, and classic salmon patterns.
### **Key Features:**
– **Strength & Durability**: Made from high-quality polyester, this thread resists breaking under tension, making it ideal for securing heavier materials.
– **Consistent Diameter**: Unlike some cheaper threads, UTC maintains a uniform thickness, ensuring smooth wraps without bulk.
– **Wide Color Selection**: Available in a broad range of colors, allowing for precise matching with natural insect hues.
– **Low Wax Coating**: Provides just enough tackiness to hold materials in place without excessive buildup.
## **Performance in Fly Tying**
### **Trout Flies**
For smaller trout patterns like **pheasant tail nymphs, hare’s ears, and midges**, some tiers prefer a finer thread (such as 140 Denier). However, the **70 Denier** is excellent for **larger nymphs, woolly buggers, and streamers**, where extra strength is needed.
### **Salmon Flies**
When tying **classic salmon flies**, thread strength is crucial. The UTC 70 Denier holds up well when securing heavy materials like **tinsel, bucktail, and hackle**, reducing the risk of snapping mid-tie.
### **Ease of Use**
The thread’s smooth texture allows for tight wraps without fraying. Unlike some waxed threads, it doesn’t gum up the bobbin, making it a favorite among both beginners and experienced tiers.
## **Price & Value Comparison**
One of the biggest concerns for fly tiers is whether a premium thread like **UTC Ultra Thread 70 Denier** is worth the extra cost compared to budget alternatives.
### **Pros:**
✔ **Long-Lasting**: A single spool lasts a long time due to its high yardage.
✔ **Reliable Strength**: Fewer breakages mean fewer frustrating reties.
✔ **Versatility**: Works well for both delicate and heavy-duty patterns.
### **Cons:**
❌ **Higher Cost**: More expensive than generic brands like **UNI-Thread** or **Veevus**.
❌ **Not Ideal for Ultra-Fine Flies**: For tiny midges or dry flies, a finer thread (like 8/0 or 140 Denier) may be better.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
If you tie a lot of **medium to large trout and salmon flies**, the **Kylebooker UTC Ultra Thread 70 Denier** is an excellent investment. Its **strength, consistency, and ease of use** justify the slightly higher price, especially if you’re tired of threads that fray or snap unexpectedly.
However, if you primarily tie **very small flies**, you might want to keep a finer thread on hand as well. Overall, this thread delivers **great value for serious fly tiers** who prioritize quality and reliability.
Would I recommend it? **Absolutely**—especially if you’re looking for a dependable thread that won’t let you down at the vise.
**Rating: 4.7/5** (Excellent for most applications, but slightly pricey for casual tiers.)
Have you tried **UTC Ultra Thread 70 Denier**? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🎣