Lot 35, Dyed Dark Blue India Rooster Streamer Neck Cape Feathers for Fly Tying
Kyle Booker 
**Kylebooker Lot 35, Dyed Dark Blue India Rooster Streamer Neck Cape Feathers for Fly Tying: A Review on Value for Money**
As an avid fly-tying enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that offer both durability and aesthetic appeal without breaking the bank. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Lot 35, Dyed Dark Blue India Rooster Streamer Neck Cape Feathers**, and after thorough testing, I’m excited to share my thoughts on whether this product delivers good value for money.
### **Quality of the Feathers**
The first thing that stands out about this lot is the **rich, consistent dark blue dye**. The color is vibrant and evenly distributed, which is crucial for creating visually striking flies. The feathers are sourced from **Indian rooster necks**, known for their sturdy yet flexible barbules—ideal for streamers, woolly buggers, and other larger patterns.
Upon inspection, the feathers exhibit **minimal breakage or fraying**, a common issue with lower-grade capes. The hackles are long enough (ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches) to tie multiple sizes of flies, and the natural curvature of the fibers helps achieve better movement in water.
### **Versatility in Fly Tying**
This cape is marketed for **streamer tying**, and it lives up to that promise. The stiff, webby feathers hold up well when wrapped around hooks, and the barb density allows for **good water resistance**. However, I found it surprisingly adaptable for other patterns too:
– **Winged wet flies**: The darker hue works well for mayfly imitations.
– **Collars on bass poppers**: The dye doesn’t bleed when wet.
– **Saltwater patterns**: The durability resists corrosion from salt.
That said, if you’re looking for **dry-fly hackle**, this isn’t the right choice—the fibers lack the fine, sparse quality needed for delicate floats.
### **Packaging and Quantity**
The Lot 35 package contains **35+ feathers**, which is generous compared to smaller lots sold at similar prices. The feathers are **securely bundled** to prevent damage during shipping, and the natural skin patches make it easy to grip while tying.
One minor drawback is the **size inconsistency**—some feathers are shorter or narrower than others, but this is typical for neck capes and doesn’t significantly impact usability.
### **Price vs. Competitors**
At **$12–$15 per lot** (depending on the retailer), the Kylebooker cape is **competitively priced**. Comparable dyed capes from brands like Whiting or Metz often cost 20–30% more, though they may offer slightly better uniformity. For budget-conscious tiers or beginners, this is an excellent entry point.
### **Potential Improvements**
– **More color options**: A wider range of dyed shades would appeal to tiers targeting specific hatches.
– **Grading by size**: Separating feathers by length could streamline the tying process.
### **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
If you prioritize **affordability, durability, and bold coloration** for streamers and wet flies, the **Kylebooker Lot 35** is a **solid investment**. While it may not replace premium dry-fly hackle, its versatility and quantity make it a **high-value option** for both beginners and experienced tiers.
**Rating: 4.3/5**
*Pros*: Vibrant dye, good barb strength, budget-friendly.
*Cons*: Not for dry flies, slight size variation.
For under $20, this lot delivers **excellent bang for your buck**—perfect for stocking up on reliable materials without compromising quality. Tight lines!
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