
**Is Kylebooker Gold Flashabou .37mm, 13-1/2″ Long Worth the Investment? A Comprehensive Review**
As an avid angler, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials to enhance my fly tying and lure-making projects. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Gold Flashabou (.37mm, 13-1/2″ long)**, a product marketed for its versatility in fly tying, jig making, and adding flash to tinsel. But does it live up to the hype? After thorough testing, here’s my detailed evaluation of its performance, durability, and overall value.
### **Product Overview**
The **Kylebooker Gold Flashabou** is a thin, metallic flash material designed to mimic the natural shimmer of baitfish scales. Measuring **0.37mm in thickness and 13.5 inches in length**, it’s ideal for creating lifelike movement in flies, jigs, and spinnerbaits. Its gold hue is particularly effective in murky or low-light conditions, where flash can trigger aggressive strikes.
### **Performance in Fly Tying & Lure Making**
1. **Ease of Use**
– The material is lightweight and easy to cut, making it simple to incorporate into various patterns.
– It doesn’t fray excessively, ensuring clean wraps when tying streamers or saltwater flies.
2. **Flash & Attraction**
– The reflective properties are excellent—subtle yet bright enough to catch a fish’s attention without being overly gaudy.
– Works well when layered with other materials (e.g., bucktail or marabou) to create depth in baitfish imitations.
3. **Durability**
– Holds up well against toothy species like pike or saltwater predators.
– Resists fading after prolonged exposure to water, unlike cheaper alternatives.
### **Versatility Across Techniques**
– **Jig Making:** Adds a premium flash element to skirted jigs, enhancing their appeal for bass and walleye.
– **Tinsel Substitute:** A cost-effective alternative to traditional tinsel, especially for larger patterns.
– **Spinnerbaits & Blade Attachments:** Can be tied onto spinnerbait arms for extra vibration and visibility.
### **Price vs. Value**
At **$8–$12 per pack (depending on retailer)**, the Kylebooker Flashabou is competitively priced compared to similar brands like **Craft Fur or Angel Hair**. Given its durability and effectiveness, it offers solid **long-term value**, especially since a single strand can be split for multiple flies.
### **Potential Drawbacks**
– **Limited Color Options:** Gold is versatile, but anglers seeking UV or holographic finishes may need supplementary materials.
– **Static Cling:** The thin strands can stick together, requiring careful handling during tying.
### **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
For fly tiers and lure makers seeking **a balance of quality, flash, and affordability**, the **Kylebooker Gold Flashabou** is a strong choice. Its performance in both freshwater and saltwater applications, combined with its resilience, makes it a worthwhile addition to any tackle box. While not the cheapest option, its **cost-per-fly** justifies the investment for serious anglers.
**Rating: 4.5/5**
*Recommended for: Streamers, jigs, saltwater flies, and predator attractors.*
Would you try this material? Share your experiences in the comments! 🎣