Lot 103, Dyed Caddis Green India Rooster Streamer Neck Cape Feathers Fly Tying
Mark Hopkins 
# **Kylebooker Lot 103, Dyed Caddis Green India Rooster Streamer Neck Cape Feathers Fly Tying: A Comprehensive Review on Value for Money**
As an avid fly fisherman, I am always on the lookout for high-quality materials that enhance my fly-tying experience. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Lot 103, Dyed Caddis Green India Rooster Streamer Neck Cape Feathers**, and I was intrigued by its potential for creating vibrant, durable streamer flies. After thorough testing and comparison with other similar products, I am ready to share my insights on whether this product offers good value for money.
## **Product Overview**
The **Kylebooker Lot 103** is a dyed rooster neck cape specifically designed for fly tying, particularly streamer patterns. The feathers are dyed in a striking **Caddis Green** shade, which is excellent for imitating various aquatic insects and baitfish. The cape is sourced from **India roosters**, known for their long, sturdy hackle fibers, making them ideal for streamer construction.
### **Key Features:**
– **High-Quality Feathers:** The neck cape provides a range of feather sizes, suitable for different fly patterns.
– **Vibrant & Consistent Dye:** The **Caddis Green** color is rich and uniform, ensuring visually appealing flies.
– **Durable & Flexible Fibers:** The feathers hold their shape well, even after repeated casting and water exposure.
– **Versatile for Streamers:** Ideal for Woolly Buggers, Zonkers, and other articulated patterns.
## **Performance & Usability**
### **1. Feather Quality & Durability**
One of the most critical aspects of any fly-tying material is durability. The **Kylebooker Lot 103** feathers are **strong yet flexible**, meaning they don’t break easily when wrapped around a hook. Compared to cheaper alternatives, these feathers maintain their structure even after aggressive stripping retrieves, making them perfect for predatory fish like bass and trout.
### **2. Color Retention**
A common issue with dyed feathers is fading after prolonged exposure to water and sunlight. However, the **Caddis Green** dye on this cape has shown **excellent resistance to fading**, even after multiple fishing trips. This is a significant advantage over budget brands that lose their vibrancy quickly.
### **3. Versatility in Fly Patterns**
The **neck cape format** allows for easy selection of feather sizes, from smaller hackles for tailing to larger ones for winging. This makes it suitable for a variety of streamer patterns, including:
– **Woolly Buggers** (using the longer saddle feathers)
– **Murdich Minnows** (using the webby feathers for a lifelike profile)
– **Zonker Strips** (if used in conjunction with rabbit fur)
### **4. Price Comparison**
When evaluating **value for money**, it’s essential to compare this product with similar offerings from brands like **Whiting Farms, Metz, or Hareline**. While **Kylebooker’s Lot 103** is **not the cheapest option**, it offers a **better balance between cost and quality** than many mid-range alternatives. Cheaper capes often have inconsistent feather lengths or weak dye jobs, whereas this product delivers **reliable performance** at a reasonable price.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
– **Limited Natural Colors:** Since this is a dyed product, it may not be ideal for anglers who prefer natural undyed hackles.
– **Slightly Stiffer Fibers:** Some tiers might find the fibers a bit stiffer than premium genetic hackles, though this is a minor issue for streamers.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Investment?**
For fly tyers who prioritize **durability, color retention, and versatility**, the **Kylebooker Lot 103** is an excellent choice. While it may not be the absolute cheapest option, its **consistent quality** justifies the price. If you tie a lot of streamers and want a cape that lasts, this product offers **great value for money**.
### **Rating: 4.5/5**
– **Quality:** ★★★★☆ (Excellent, but not Whiting Farms level)
– **Durability:** ★★★★★ (Holds up well in water)
– **Color Retention:** ★★★★★ (Minimal fading observed)
– **Price-to-Performance Ratio:** ★★★★☆ (Good, but not the cheapest)
If you’re looking for a **reliable, well-dyed rooster neck cape** for streamer tying, the **Kylebooker Lot 103** is a solid investment. Happy tying and tight lines! 🎣