UV ICE DUB by HARELINE. U PICK COLOR. FLY TYING DUBBING.
**Kylebooker UV ICE DUB by HARELINE: A Comprehensive Review on Value for Money**
For fly-tying enthusiasts, selecting the right dubbing material can make or break the success of a fishing trip. The **Kylebooker UV ICE DUB by HARELINE** has gained attention in the angling community for its vibrant colors, UV-reactive properties, and versatility. But how does it stack up in terms of cost-effectiveness? This review dives deep into its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your fly-tying toolkit.
### **Product Overview**
The **UV ICE DUB** is a synthetic dubbing designed for creating lifelike nymphs, streamers, and dry flies. Its standout feature is the **UV-reactive fibers**, which enhance visibility underwater—a critical advantage in low-light conditions. The “U PICK COLOR” option allows anglers to customize their selection from a wide spectrum, catering to specific fishing environments and prey preferences.
### **Performance and Usability**
1. **UV Reactivity**:
The dubbing’s UV properties mimic the natural iridescence of aquatic insects, triggering more strikes. Tested in both clear and murky waters, it consistently outperforms non-UV alternatives, especially for trout and panfish.
2. **Color Retention**:
Unlike some budget dubbers that fade after exposure to sunlight or water, **HARELINE’s** product maintains its brilliance over time. This durability reduces the need for frequent replacements.
3. **Texture and Blendability**:
The fine, slightly coarse texture makes it easy to blend with other materials (e.g, flash or natural fur). It adheres well to threads without clumping, ideal for creating slender bodies or dubbed collars.
### **Price vs. Competitors**
At **$5–$8 per pack** (depending on retailer), the UV ICE DUB sits in the mid-range price tier. Comparatively:
– **Budget options** (e.g., generic synthetic dubbing at $2–$4) lack UV features and fade quickly.
– **Premium brands** (like Wapsi) charge $10+ for similar UV products but offer marginally better fiber distribution.
Given its balance of price and performance, **Kylebooker’s dubbing provides 80–90% of the quality of top-tier brands at half the cost**.
### **Long-Term Value**
– **Quantity**: Each pack contains enough material for **50–75 flies**, making it cost-efficient for frequent tyers.
– **Versatility**: Works for both freshwater and saltwater patterns, reducing the need to buy specialized dubbers.
– **Customer Feedback**: Positive reviews highlight its consistency across color batches—a rarity in mid-priced dubbing.
### **Areas for Improvement**
– The fibers could be slightly shorter for finer patterns (e.g., midge imitations).
– A “sample pack” with smaller portions of multiple colors would help anglers test before committing.
### **Final Verdict: 4.5/5 for Value**
The **Kylebooker UV ICE DUB** delivers exceptional quality for its price. While not the cheapest, its UV performance, durability, and color options justify the investment. For anglers seeking a **reliable, high-visibility dubbing without breaking the bank**, this product is a standout choice.
**Pro Tip**: Pair it with a UV flashlight to maximize its effectiveness during dawn/dusk hatches!
Would you try it? Share your fly-tying experiences in the comments! 🎣