Hen Capes Dyed & Natural Fly Tying – Cumbrian Fishing Supplies

# **Kylebooker Hen Capes Dyed & Natural Fly Tying – Cumbrian Fishing Supplies: Are They Worth It?**

For fly tyers and anglers, the quality of materials can make or break a successful fishing trip. One of the key components in fly tying is the feather cape, which provides the necessary hackles for creating realistic and durable flies. Among the many options available, **Kylebooker Hen Capes (Dyed & Natural) from Cumbrian Fishing Supplies** have gained attention. But how do they stack up in terms of value for money? Let’s take a closer look.

## **Quality of Feathers**

The first thing any fly tyer considers is the quality of the feathers. Kylebooker offers both **dyed and natural hen capes**, which are essential for various fly patterns. Hen feathers are softer than rooster hackles, making them ideal for wet flies, nymphs, and softer-hackled dry flies.

– **Natural Hen Capes**: These provide a range of earthy tones, from light cream to dark brown, perfect for imitating natural insects. The feathers are well-sized and have good barb density, ensuring durability when tied.
– **Dyed Hen Capes**: Available in vibrant colors like olive, black, and fiery orange, these are excellent for attractor patterns or when a specific hue is needed. The dye job is consistent, with minimal bleeding when wet.

Compared to premium brands like Whiting or Metz, Kylebooker’s hen capes may not be as refined, but they still offer excellent value for the price.

## **Price vs. Performance**

One of the biggest selling points of **Kylebooker Hen Capes** is their affordability. While high-end hackles can cost upwards of £30-£50 per cape, Kylebooker’s options are priced more reasonably, often between £10-£20 depending on size and color.

For budget-conscious fly tyers or those who go through materials quickly (such as commercial tiers), this makes them a **cost-effective choice**. The feathers tie in well, and while they may not have the ultra-stiff barbs of a Whiting saddle, they are more than sufficient for most freshwater applications.

## **Comparison with Other Brands**

When evaluating **Cumbrian Fishing Supplies’ Kylebooker Hen Capes**, it’s helpful to compare them with alternatives:

– **Whiting Farms**: The gold standard in hackle quality, but significantly more expensive.
– **Metz**: Another high-end option, with slightly better feather consistency than Kylebooker but at a higher price.
– **Cheap Chinese Imports**: Often inconsistent in size and barb quality, making Kylebooker a better mid-range choice.

For anglers who tie flies frequently but don’t need tournament-grade hackles, **Kylebooker provides a solid middle ground**.

## **Final Verdict: Good Value for Money**

If you’re looking for **decent-quality hen capes without breaking the bank**, Kylebooker’s offerings from **Cumbrian Fishing Supplies** are a great option. While they may not match the elite brands in terms of feather stiffness or uniformity, they perform well for most fly-tying needs.

**Pros:**
✔ Affordable compared to premium brands
✔ Good selection of natural and dyed colors
✔ Suitable for wet flies, nymphs, and softer dry flies

**Cons:**
✖ Not as stiff as rooster hackles for dry flies
✖ Some color variations may be inconsistent

For the average fly tyer, **Kylebooker Hen Capes** offer **excellent value for money**, making them a worthwhile addition to any fly-tying kit. If you need top-tier dry fly hackles, you might still opt for Whiting, but for general tying purposes, these are a smart buy.

Would you recommend them? **Absolutely—especially for beginners and intermediate tiers looking for reliable materials without overspending.**

Happy tying and tight lines! 🎣