**Kylebooker Perfect Hatch S Lon Fly Tying Material for Fly Tying: Is It Worth the Investment?**
For fly fishing enthusiasts, the quality of tying materials can make or break the success of their handcrafted flies. The **Kylebooker Perfect Hatch S Lon Fly Tying Material** has gained attention in the angling community, but how does it measure up in terms of value for money? This review explores its features, performance, and overall cost-effectiveness to help you decide if it’s the right addition to your fly-tying toolkit.
### **1. Overview of the Product**
The **Perfect Hatch S Lon** is a synthetic fly-tying material designed to imitate natural insect wings and emergers. Its ultra-fine fibers and lightweight structure aim to create lifelike movement in the water, crucial for fooling selective trout and other freshwater species. The material comes in a range of colors, allowing tiers to match local hatch patterns accurately.
### **2. Key Features**
– **Realistic Texture**: The fibers mimic the delicate transparency of mayfly and midge wings, enhancing the fly’s natural appearance.
– **Durability**: Unlike natural materials, S Lon resists water absorption, maintaining its shape and buoyancy over time.
– **Ease of Use**: The fibers are easy to separate and tie, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced tiers.
– **Versatility**: Works well for dry flies, emergers, and even nymph wing cases.
### **3. Performance Evaluation**
In field tests, flies tied with **Perfect Hatch S Lon** exhibit excellent floatation and movement. The material’s hydrophobic properties prevent sogginess, a common issue with natural feathers or CDC. Anglers report that patterns like Comparaduns and Sparkle Duns tied with S Lon outperform traditional materials in slow-moving waters where fish are wary.
However, some users note that the fibers can be *too* fine for larger flies, requiring extra layers to build volume. While this isn’t a dealbreaker, it’s worth considering if you frequently tie size #10 or bigger patterns.
### **4. Price vs. Competitors**
Priced at **$12–$15 per pack** (depending on color), the **Kylebooker S Lon** sits in the mid-range tier. Compared to premium options like **Hareline Synthetic Wing Material** or **CDC**, it offers better durability at a lower cost. A single pack can tie dozens of flies, making it a cost-effective choice for frequent tiers.
### **5. Pros and Cons**
**Pros:**
✔ Realistic, lifelike movement
✔ Lightweight and buoyant
✔ Wide color selection
✔ Long-lasting (no degradation from moisture)
**Cons:**
✖ May require layering for larger flies
✖ Slightly pricier than basic synthetic blends
### **6. Verdict: Good Value for Serious Tyers**
If you prioritize realism and durability, the **Kylebooker Perfect Hatch S Lon** delivers solid performance for its price. While budget-conscious anglers might opt for cheaper synthetics, this material strikes a balance between quality and affordability. Its versatility and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment, especially for imitating small mayflies or midges where detail matters.
**Final Rating**: 4.3/5
**Recommendation**: Ideal for intermediate to advanced fly tyers focusing on precision patterns. Stock up during sales to maximize value!
Would you try this material? Share your experiences in the comments! 🎣