# **Kylebooker METZ: New Pack Size 20 Grizzly Dry Fly Hackle for Fly Tying – Is It Worth the Price?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that enhance my fly-tying experience. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker METZ New Pack Size 20 Grizzly Dry Fly Hackle for Fly Tying**, and I was intrigued by its claims of superior quality and affordability. But does it really deliver? In this review, I’ll break down its features, performance, and overall value to help fellow anglers decide if this product is worth adding to their fly-tying arsenal.
## **Overview of the Product**
The **Kylebooker METZ Grizzly Dry Fly Hackle** is a premium neck feather pack designed specifically for dry fly tying. The **Size 20** variant is ideal for small to medium-sized flies, making it a versatile choice for various fishing conditions. The grizzly pattern—a classic black-and-white barred feather—is highly sought after for its natural insect-like appearance, which effectively imitates mayflies, caddis, and other aquatic insects.
### **Key Features:**
– **High-Quality Feathers:** METZ is a well-known brand in fly-tying circles, and their hackles are renowned for durability and flexibility.
– **Consistent Barring:** The grizzly pattern is evenly distributed, ensuring a uniform look on finished flies.
– **Excellent Stem Strength:** The feathers hold their shape well when wrapped, reducing breakage during tying.
– **Pack Size 20:** A generous quantity, making it cost-effective for frequent fly tyers.
## **Performance in Fly Tying**
One of the biggest challenges in dry fly tying is finding hackle that is both **stiff enough to float** yet **flexible enough to wrap smoothly**. The **Kylebooker METZ Grizzly Hackle** excels in this regard.
– **Floatation Test:** When tied onto dry flies, the hackle provides excellent buoyancy, keeping the fly riding high on the water—a crucial factor when targeting selective trout.
– **Ease of Wrapping:** The feathers are thin yet strong, allowing for tight wraps without splitting. This is particularly important when tying smaller flies (e.g., #18-#22).
– **Durability:** Unlike cheaper hackles that fray or lose their shape after a few uses, these feathers maintain their integrity even after multiple casts.
## **Price vs. Value: Is It Cost-Effective?**
When evaluating the **Kylebooker METZ Grizzly Hackle**, the **price-to-quality ratio** is a major consideration. Compared to other premium brands like **Whiting Farms or Collins Hackle**, this product is competitively priced while still delivering high performance.
– **Affordability:** While not the cheapest option on the market, the **Size 20 pack** offers a good quantity of feathers, making it a better long-term investment than smaller packs.
– **Longevity:** Since the feathers are durable, you won’t need to replace them as frequently as lower-grade hackles.
– **Versatility:** The grizzly pattern works well for a variety of dry flies, including **Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Royal Wulffs**, meaning you won’t need multiple packs for different patterns.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
No product is perfect, and there are a couple of minor downsides to consider:
– **Limited Color Options:** While the grizzly pattern is versatile, some tyers might prefer a wider range of shades (e.g., brown or dun).
– **Packaging:** Some users have noted that the feathers can arrive slightly compressed, requiring a bit of fluffing before use.
## **Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?**
If you’re serious about fly tying and want **high-quality, durable hackle at a reasonable price**, the **Kylebooker METZ Grizzly Dry Fly Hackle (Size 20)** is an excellent choice. It offers **great floatation, ease of use, and long-term value**, making it a smart addition to any fly-tying kit.
While there are slightly cheaper alternatives, the **consistency and performance** of METZ feathers justify the investment. For anglers who tie a lot of dry flies, this pack will last a long time and help create flies that **fish consistently well**.
### **Rating: 4.5/5**
✔ **Pros:** High-quality feathers, excellent floatation, good value for money.
✖ **Cons:** Limited color options, packaging could be improved.
If you’re looking for **reliable dry fly hackle**, the **Kylebooker METZ Grizzly** is definitely worth considering. Tight lines and happy tying! 🎣