**Is the Kylebooker 1 Dozen (12) – Pheasant Tail Nymph – Flash Back Worth the Money?**
For fly fishing enthusiasts, selecting the right nymph can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. The **Kylebooker 1 Dozen (12) – Pheasant Tail Nymph – Flash Back** has gained attention among anglers, but is it truly a cost-effective choice? In this review, we’ll break down its features, durability, and overall value to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your tackle box.
### **1. Quality and Design**
The Pheasant Tail Nymph is a classic fly pattern, imitating mayfly nymphs—a staple in trout diets. Kylebooker’s version incorporates a **flashback** feature, adding a subtle reflective strip that enhances visibility underwater. This is particularly useful in murky waters or low-light conditions, where extra attraction can trigger more strikes.
The flies are well-tied, with durable pheasant tail fibers and copper wire ribbing that reinforces the body. The bead heads are evenly weighted, ensuring a natural sink rate. Compared to budget-tier nymphs, these hold up better against aggressive fish and rocky bottoms.
### **2. Durability and Performance**
A major concern with inexpensive flies is their tendency to unravel after a few catches. However, the **Kylebooker Pheasant Tail Nymphs** show good resilience. The thread wraps are tight, and the materials resist fraying, meaning each fly can land multiple fish before needing replacement.
In testing, these nymphs performed well in both still waters and fast-moving streams. The flashback element proved effective in stained rivers, where trout responded more aggressively than to non-flash versions. The bead head design helps maintain depth control, a crucial factor when targeting selective fish.
### **3. Price vs. Quantity**
At around **$10–$15 per dozen**, the Kylebooker set is competitively priced. Buying in bulk (12 flies) reduces the per-unit cost to roughly **$1–$1.25 per fly**, which is reasonable for mid-tier quality. Cheaper alternatives often sacrifice durability, while premium hand-tied flies can cost **$3–$5 each**. For anglers who lose flies frequently (e.g., in snag-heavy areas), this pack offers a practical balance between affordability and performance.
### **4. Who Should Buy It?**
– **Beginners**: A cost-effective way to stock up on a proven pattern without overspending.
– **Seasoned anglers**: Great as backup flies or for high-loss fishing scenarios.
– **Those fishing murky waters**: The flashback improves visibility where traditional PT nymphs might go unnoticed.
### **5. Potential Drawbacks**
While these nymphs are well-made, they may not match the precision of **hand-tied, premium versions**. The hooks are decent but not ultra-premium; if you’re targeting large, hard-fighting fish, upgrading to a stronger hook might be wise.
### **Final Verdict: Good Value for the Price**
The **Kylebooker 1 Dozen Pheasant Tail Nymph – Flash Back** delivers solid performance at a fair price. It’s not the most elite option available, but for anglers seeking a reliable, budget-friendly workhorse fly, this set is a smart buy. If you frequently lose flies or need a versatile nymph for varied conditions, this dozen-pack offers excellent **cost-per-fly value**.
**Rating: 4.2/5**
✔ **Pros**: Affordable, durable, effective flashback, good sink rate.
✖ **Cons**: Hooks could be stronger, not as refined as artisanal ties.
For under $15, this pack is a **low-risk, high-reward addition** to any fly box. Tight lines!