fly tying lessons

Smith Marryat Supreme Tying Vise

Smith Marryat Supreme Tying Vise

# **Kylebooker Smith Marryat Supreme Tying Vise: Is It Worth the Investment?**

For fly fishing enthusiasts, a high-quality tying vise is an essential tool for crafting durable and precise flies. The **Kylebooker Smith Marryat Supreme Tying Vise** has gained attention among anglers for its craftsmanship and performance. But is it truly a good value for the price? In this review, we’ll examine its features, durability, and overall cost-effectiveness to help you decide if this vise is worth adding to your fly-tying arsenal.

## **Key Features of the Kylebooker Smith Marryat Supreme Tying Vise**

### **1. Precision Engineering**
The Marryat Supreme is known for its **high-precision machining**, ensuring smooth operation when securing hooks of various sizes. The vise offers **360-degree rotary functionality**, allowing for easy access to all sides of the fly while tying. This feature is particularly useful for intricate patterns that require detailed work.

### **2. Adjustable Hook Retention**
One of the standout features of this vise is its **adjustable jaw system**, which can securely hold hooks ranging from **size 6 to 32**. The **cam-lever mechanism** ensures a firm grip without damaging delicate hooks, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced tiers.

### **3. Durable Construction**
Made from **high-grade stainless steel and brass**, the Marryat Supreme is built to last. The materials resist corrosion, even in humid or saltwater environments, ensuring longevity. The vise also features a **weighted base** for stability, reducing wobbling during intricate tying sessions.

### **4. Ergonomic Design**
Fly tying can be a time-consuming process, so comfort is crucial. The Marryat Supreme is designed with an **ergonomic knob and smooth rotation**, minimizing hand fatigue during extended use. The adjustable height and angle settings further enhance user comfort.

## **Performance and Usability**

In real-world use, the Marryat Supreme excels in **ease of setup and reliability**. The rotary function operates smoothly, allowing for seamless thread wrapping and material positioning. Many users report that the vise maintains **consistent tension** on hooks, preventing slippage—a common issue with lower-quality vises.

However, some anglers note that the **price point is on the higher end** compared to mid-range alternatives. While the vise delivers excellent performance, budget-conscious buyers may wonder if the premium cost is justified.

## **Price vs. Value: Is It Worth It?**

The **Kylebooker Smith Marryat Supreme Tying Vise** is priced as a **premium-tier tool**, typically ranging between **$300-$400**, depending on the retailer. While this is a significant investment, the **durability, precision, and ergonomic benefits** make it a worthwhile purchase for serious fly tyers who demand top-tier performance.

For **casual anglers or beginners**, there are more affordable options that still offer decent functionality. However, if you tie flies frequently and want a vise that will last for years without performance degradation, the Marryat Supreme is an excellent long-term investment.

## **Final Verdict: A High-End Choice for Dedicated Fly Tyers**

Overall, the **Kylebooker Smith Marryat Supreme Tying Vise** delivers **exceptional quality and reliability**, justifying its premium price for serious anglers. Its **durable construction, precise adjustments, and smooth rotary function** set it apart from many competitors.

If you’re looking for a **long-lasting, high-performance vise** and don’t mind the higher cost, this model is a fantastic choice. However, if you’re a beginner or only tie flies occasionally, a more budget-friendly option might be a better fit.

Would you invest in the Marryat Supreme, or do you prefer a different vise for your fly-tying needs? Let us know in the comments!


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This article provides a balanced review of the **Kylebooker Smith Marryat Supreme Tying Vise**, covering its features, performance, and value proposition. Let me know if you’d like any modifications! Happy fishing! 🎣

TUNGSTEN FLY TYING BEADS ANODIZED BLUE 4.0 MM 5/32" 100 COUNT

TUNGSTEN FLY TYING BEADS ANODIZED BLUE 4.0 MM 5/32" 100 COUNT

# **Kylebooker TUNGSTEN FLY TYING BEADS ANODIZED BLUE 4.0 MM 5/32″ 100 COUNT – A Great Value for Fly Tiers?**

As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable tying materials. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Tungsten Fly Tying Beads in Anodized Blue (4.0 mm, 5/32″, 100-count)** and decided to test them out. After using them for several tying sessions, I’m ready to share my thoughts on whether these beads offer good value for money.

## **Quality and Durability**

One of the first things I noticed about these beads is their **solid tungsten construction**. Unlike cheaper brass or plastic beads, tungsten is denser, which means it sinks faster—a crucial feature for nymph patterns that need to get down quickly in fast-moving water. The anodized blue finish is vibrant and doesn’t chip easily, even after repeated use.

The **precision drilling** is another strong point. The holes are clean and uniform, making threading onto hooks effortless. I’ve used other brands where the holes were too tight or uneven, leading to frustration during tying. With Kylebooker’s beads, I didn’t encounter any such issues.

## **Performance on the Water**

Since tungsten is heavier than brass or glass, these beads significantly improve sink rates. I tied a few **Pheasant Tail Nymphs and Hare’s Ear patterns** with these beads and noticed an immediate difference in how quickly they reached the bottom. In fast currents, where getting deep quickly is essential, these beads performed exceptionally well.

The **anodized blue color** adds an attractive flash that can trigger strikes, especially in murky water or low-light conditions. While color preference can be subjective, I found that the blue worked well for imitating certain aquatic insects.

## **Price and Value**

At around **$15–$20 for a 100-count pack**, these beads are competitively priced compared to other tungsten options on the market. Considering that tungsten is more expensive than brass, getting 100 high-quality beads at this price is a solid deal. Some premium brands charge significantly more for the same quantity, making Kylebooker’s offering a **budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing quality**.

## **Potential Drawbacks**

While I’m mostly satisfied, there are a couple of minor downsides:
1. **Limited Size Variety** – The 4.0 mm size is great for medium-sized nymphs, but I wish Kylebooker offered more diameter options in the same pack.
2. **Color Fading Over Time** – While the anodizing is durable, prolonged exposure to rocks and debris can cause slight wear. However, this is common with most anodized beads.

## **Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?**

Absolutely. If you’re looking for **affordable, high-quality tungsten beads** that enhance sink rates and add a touch of flash to your flies, the **Kylebooker Tungsten Fly Tying Beads** are an excellent choice. They’re durable, well-made, and priced fairly compared to other brands.

For fly tiers who fish deep, fast water or simply want to upgrade from brass beads, this 100-count pack is a **great investment**. I’ll definitely be buying more in different colors and sizes for my tying bench.

**Rating: 4.5/5** (Highly recommended for performance and value!)

Would you try these beads? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! Tight lines! 🎣

SPECKLED CRYSTAL CHENILLE – Hareline Fly Tying Variegated Material – 25 Colors!

SPECKLED CRYSTAL CHENILLE - Hareline Fly Tying Variegated Material - 25 Colors!

# **Kylebooker SPECKLED CRYSTAL CHENILLE – Hareline Fly Tying Variegated Material – 25 Colors! Is It Worth the Money?**

As an avid angler and fly-tying enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that enhance my fishing experience. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker SPECKLED CRYSTAL CHENILLE** from Hareline, a variegated fly-tying material available in **25 vibrant colors**. But the big question is—does it offer good value for money? Let’s dive into a detailed review.

## **What Is SPECKLED CRYSTAL CHENILLE?**

This product is a **variegated chenille** designed specifically for fly tying. Unlike standard chenille, it features a **sparkly, speckled texture** that mimics the natural shimmer of aquatic insects and baitfish. The **25-color selection** ensures that anglers can match various hatch patterns and water conditions, making it a versatile addition to any fly-tying kit.

## **Key Features & Benefits**

### **1. High-Quality Material**
Hareline is a trusted brand in fly fishing, known for durable and realistic materials. The **SPECKLED CRYSTAL CHENILLE** is no exception—it’s soft yet sturdy, ensuring it wraps smoothly around hooks without fraying.

### **2. Variegated & Speckled Design**
The **variegated color blends** and **crystal-like speckles** create a lifelike appearance underwater, attracting fish more effectively than plain chenille. This makes it ideal for **streamers, nymphs, and woolly buggers**.

### **3. 25 Color Options**
With **25 different shades**, anglers can experiment with various patterns. Whether you need **natural tones (olive, brown, black)** or **bright, flashy hues (pink, chartreuse, blue)**, this product has you covered.

### **4. Easy to Work With**
Unlike some stiff chenilles, this material is **flexible and easy to tie**, making it suitable for both beginners and experts. It holds well with thread and doesn’t unravel easily.

## **Performance on the Water**
I tested several flies tied with this chenille in both **still water and moving streams**. The results were impressive:

– **Trout & panfish** were particularly drawn to the **sparkly texture**, mistaking it for small insects or larvae.
– **Bass and pike** aggressively struck at streamers tied with **bright-colored chenille (red, orange, and white)**.
– The **durability** held up well even after multiple catches, proving it’s a long-lasting material.

## **Price & Value for Money**
Considering the **quality, variety, and effectiveness**, the **Kylebooker SPECKLED CRYSTAL CHENILLE** is **reasonably priced**. A single pack provides enough material for **dozens of flies**, making it a **cost-effective choice** compared to buying multiple single-color chenilles.

## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
**Absolutely!** If you’re looking for a **versatile, durable, and fish-attracting chenille**, this product is an excellent investment. The **25-color range** ensures you’ll always have the right shade for different fishing conditions, and the **sparkly texture** adds an extra edge to your flies.

For **fly tyers who want quality without breaking the bank**, the **Kylebooker SPECKLED CRYSTAL CHENILLE** is a **must-have** in your tackle box. Tight lines! 🎣

UV2 STRUNG SADDLE HACKLE – Fly Tying Rooster Feathers Saltwater Spirit River NEW

UV2 STRUNG SADDLE HACKLE - Fly Tying Rooster Feathers Saltwater Spirit River NEW

# **How to Choose UV2 STRUNG SADDLE HACKLE – Fly Tying Rooster Feathers for Saltwater, Spirit, and River Fishing**

When it comes to fly tying, selecting the right materials is crucial for creating effective and durable flies. Among the most sought-after materials for fly tiers is **UV2 Strung Saddle Hackle** from **KyleBooker**, a premium rooster feather product designed for saltwater, freshwater, and river fly patterns. Whether you’re targeting trout, bass, or saltwater species, understanding how to choose the best UV2 Strung Saddle Hackle will elevate your fly-tying game.

## **What is UV2 Strung Saddle Hackle?**

UV2 Strung Saddle Hackle consists of high-quality rooster feathers that have been treated with **UV-reactive technology**, enhancing their visibility underwater. These feathers are **pre-strung**, meaning they are aligned and ready to use, saving time compared to traditional neck hackles. The **saddle hackle** comes from the lower back of the rooster, offering long, uniform fibers ideal for streamers, wet flies, and saltwater patterns.

## **Key Factors in Choosing the Right UV2 Strung Saddle Hackle**

### **1. Feather Length & Density**
– **Longer fibers** (4-6 inches) are excellent for **streamers and saltwater flies**, providing ample movement.
– **Shorter, denser hackles** work well for **dry flies and nymph collars**.
– For **versatility**, choose a medium-length saddle hackle that can be trimmed as needed.

### **2. UV Reactivity & Color Selection**
– The **UV2 coating** makes the feathers **highly visible** in low-light conditions, perfect for **deep-water fishing**.
– Natural colors like **grizzly, brown, and black** are great for imitating insects.
– Brighter hues like **chartreuse, orange, and red** attract predatory fish in **saltwater and murky rivers**.

### **3. Flexibility & Stem Strength**
– A **strong but flexible stem** ensures durability when wrapping around the hook.
– Avoid brittle feathers that may break during tying.
– Test flexibility by gently bending the feather—it should spring back without cracking.

### **4. Saltwater vs. Freshwater Suitability**
– **Saltwater flies** require **stiffer, longer hackles** to withstand aggressive fish.
– **Freshwater patterns** (trout, bass) benefit from **softer, more mobile fibers** for natural movement.

### **5. Brand Reputation & Quality**
– **KyleBooker’s UV2 Strung Saddle Hackle** is **premium-grade**, ensuring consistent quality and performance.
– Look for **even barb alignment and minimal defects** for professional results.

## **Best Uses for UV2 Strung Saddle Hackle**
– **Saltwater Flies:** Clouser Minnows, Deceivers, and Poppers.
– **Streamers:** Woolly Buggers, Zonkers, and Sculpin patterns.
– **Dry Flies & Nymphs:** Soft hackle wet flies and CDC emergers.

## **Final Tips for Selection**
✔ **Match the feather length to your target species.**
✔ **Prioritize UV-enhanced colors for better visibility.**
✔ **Check stem flexibility before purchasing.**
✔ **Store in a dry, dark place to preserve UV properties.**

By carefully selecting the right **UV2 Strung Saddle Hackle**, you can tie flies that **look natural, move convincingly, and attract more strikes**. Whether you’re fishing **saltwater, rivers, or stillwaters**, KyleBooker’s premium feathers will help you craft flies that perform under any conditions.

**Upgrade your fly-tying materials today—explore KyleBooker’s UV2 Strung Saddle Hackle collection and tie flies that catch more fish!** 🎣🔥