Fly Tying Materials, Small, Dark Red Palmer Chenille
# **Kylebooker Fly Tying Materials, Small, Dark Red Palmer Chenille: Is It Worth the Money?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable fly tying materials. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Fly Tying Materials, Small, Dark Red Palmer Chenille**, and I decided to test its performance and value for money. After using it for several fly patterns, here’s my detailed review.
## **What Is Palmer Chenille?**
For those unfamiliar with fly tying, **Palmer chenille** is a soft, fuzzy material used to create bodies for streamers, nymphs, and wet flies. Its textured surface mimics insect legs or segmented bodies, making it highly effective for attracting fish. The **small, dark red** variant is particularly useful for imitating midges, small leeches, or bloodworms—patterns that trout and panfish find irresistible.
## **Quality & Durability**
The first thing I noticed about the **Kylebooker Palmer Chenille** is its **consistent thickness and texture**. Unlike some budget brands that fray or shed fibers easily, this chenille holds up well when wrapped around a hook. The **dark red color** is rich and vibrant, which is crucial for visibility in murky water or low-light conditions.
I tied several **Woolly Buggers** and **San Juan Worms** using this material, and it didn’t unravel even after multiple casts. The fibers stayed intact, which is a good sign of durability.
## **Ease of Use**
One of the biggest advantages of this chenille is its **manageable size**. The **small diameter** makes it perfect for tying **size 12 to 18 hooks**, which are common for trout flies. It wraps smoothly without excessive bulk, allowing for neat, tight wraps.
Additionally, the **slightly stiff yet pliable texture** makes it easy to control while tying. Beginners might appreciate how it doesn’t slip or bunch up as easily as some ultra-soft chenilles.
## **Performance on the Water**
The real test, of course, is how well it performs when fishing. I used a **dark red chenille-bodied fly** in both stillwater and moving currents, and the results were impressive.
– **Trout Response**: In a local stream, rainbow trout aggressively attacked the fly, likely mistaking it for a bloodworm or small leech.
– **Panfish Attraction**: Bluegills and crappie also showed strong interest, especially when retrieved slowly.
– **Visibility**: The dark red shade stands out well in stained water, making it a reliable choice in varying conditions.
## **Price & Value**
Compared to premium brands like **UTC or Hareline**, the **Kylebooker chenille** is **more budget-friendly** while maintaining good quality. A single spool lasts for dozens of flies, making it a cost-effective option for fly tiers who go through materials quickly.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
No product is perfect, and there are a couple of minor issues:
– **Limited Color Options**: While the dark red is excellent, the brand could expand its palette to include more shades.
– **Packaging**: Some users might prefer pre-cut lengths, but since it comes in a continuous spool, you’ll need scissors for trimming.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
If you’re looking for **affordable, durable, and effective** fly tying chenille, the **Kylebooker Small, Dark Red Palmer Chenille** is a solid choice. It performs well in the water, is easy to work with, and offers great value for money. Whether you’re tying **buggers, worms, or nymphs**, this material is a reliable addition to your fly-tying kit.
For **serious fly fishermen on a budget**, I’d definitely recommend giving it a try. Tight lines! 🎣