Lot 211, Dyed Blue India Hen Back Saddle Feathers for Fly Tying
Francis Haines 
**Kylebooker Lot 211, Dyed Blue India Hen Back Saddle Feathers for Fly Tying: A Review on Value for Money**
For fly-tying enthusiasts, selecting high-quality materials is crucial to crafting effective and visually appealing flies. One product that has garnered attention in recent years is the **Kylebooker Lot 211, Dyed Blue India Hen Back Saddle Feathers**. But how does it stack up in terms of cost-effectiveness? This review delves into the features, performance, and overall value of this product to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your fly-tying toolkit.
### **Product Overview**
The **Kylebooker Lot 211** features dyed blue hen back saddle feathers sourced from India. These feathers are prized for their versatility in creating streamers, nymphs, and dry flies. The vibrant blue dye offers a striking aesthetic, ideal for attracting fish in various water conditions. Each lot typically contains multiple feathers, providing ample material for numerous fly patterns.
### **Quality Assessment**
1. **Feather Texture and Durability**
Hen back saddle feathers are known for their soft yet resilient fibers, making them easier to work with compared to stiffer rooster feathers. The **Kylebooker Lot 211** maintains this standard, with fibers that hold their shape well during tying. The dye job is consistent, with minimal bleeding when wet—a common issue with poorly processed feathers.
2. **Versatility in Fly Patterns**
These feathers are suitable for a range of patterns, including:
– **Woolly Buggers** (for the tail and collar)
– **Soft Hackle Flies** (wrapped around the hook)
– **Streamer Wings** (adding movement in the water)
The medium length of the fibers allows for precise trimming, catering to both small and large hooks.
3. **Color Retention**
A major concern with dyed feathers is fading after prolonged exposure to sunlight or water. Testing shows that the **Kylebooker Lot 211** retains its color reasonably well, though a UV-resistant finish could further enhance longevity.
### **Price vs. Performance**
When evaluating性价比 (cost-performance ratio), several factors come into play:
– **Affordability**: Compared to premium genetic hackle feathers (e.g., Whiting Farms), this product is significantly cheaper, making it accessible for beginners or budget-conscious tiers.
– **Yield**: Each feather provides enough material for multiple flies, reducing the cost per fly.
– **Durability**: While not as robust as rooster capes, hen feathers offer a softer action in the water, which can be more effective for certain species like trout.
### **Potential Drawbacks**
– **Inconsistent Sizing**: Some users report slight variations in feather length within the same lot, which may require sorting.
– **Limited Natural Colors**: The dyed blue shade, while attractive, may not mimic natural insects as effectively as undyed options.
### **Final Verdict**
The **Kylebooker Lot 211** offers excellent value for fly-tiers seeking affordable, versatile materials. Its balance of quality, vibrant color, and adaptability makes it a solid choice for both beginners and experienced anglers. While it may not replace high-end hackle for dry flies, its performance in wet flies and streamers justifies the price.
**Rating**: 4.2/5 (Highly recommended for budget-friendly, multi-purpose tying).
Would you like recommendations for complementary materials to pair with these feathers? Happy tying!