# **Kylebooker 4m Flexible Plastic Strip 0.12MM Thin Pupae Scuds Shrimps Shell Back Fly Tying: Is It Worth the Money?**
As an avid angler, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable fly-tying materials. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker 4m Flexible Plastic Strip (0.12mm Thin)**, designed for tying pupae, scuds, shrimps, and shell-back patterns. The product claims to be a versatile and budget-friendly option, but does it live up to expectations? In this review, I’ll analyze its features, performance, and overall value for money.
## **Product Overview**
The **Kylebooker plastic strip** is a 4-meter-long, ultra-thin (0.12mm) material primarily used for fly tying. It’s marketed as an ideal choice for creating realistic imitations of aquatic insects like midge pupae, scuds, and freshwater shrimp. The flexibility and thinness make it suitable for wrapping around hooks to form segmented bodies, adding durability and a lifelike appearance to flies.
### **Key Features:**
– **Length:** 4 meters (plenty for multiple flies)
– **Thickness:** 0.12mm (extremely thin for delicate patterns)
– **Material:** Flexible plastic (durable yet easy to work with)
– **Versatility:** Suitable for various nymph and shrimp patterns
– **Color Options:** Available in multiple shades (clear, tan, olive, etc.)
## **Performance & Usability**
### **1. Flexibility & Workability**
One of the standout qualities of this strip is its **flexibility**. Unlike some thicker or stiffer materials, this 0.12mm plastic conforms smoothly to the hook shank without cracking or fraying. When tied properly, it creates a **segmented effect** that mimics the exoskeleton of scuds and shrimp, enhancing the fly’s realism.
### **2. Durability**
Despite its thinness, the material is surprisingly **resistant to tearing**. I’ve tied several flies with it, and even after multiple catches, the plastic holds up well. This is crucial for anglers who want their flies to last longer without frequent replacements.
### **3. Realism & Effectiveness**
The **translucent finish** of the plastic strip adds a **natural sheen** to the fly, closely resembling the exoskeleton of real aquatic insects. When combined with dubbing or other materials, it enhances the fly’s **enticement factor**, making it more attractive to fish. In my tests, flies tied with this strip performed well in both **still waters and streams**, particularly for trout and panfish.
### **4. Ease of Use**
For beginners, this material is **easy to handle**. It cuts cleanly with scissors and doesn’t require special tools to apply. However, because it’s so thin, a slight learning curve exists in terms of tension control—too much stretch can distort the body shape.
## **Price & Value for Money**
Compared to similar products from well-known brands, the **Kylebooker strip is competitively priced**. Given that a single 4-meter roll can tie dozens of flies, it offers **great cost efficiency**. For anglers who tie in bulk or experiment with different patterns, this is a **budget-friendly option** without sacrificing quality.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
– **Limited color options** in some markets (though basic shades are sufficient for most patterns).
– **Extreme thinness** may require careful handling to avoid tearing during tying.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
**Yes!** The **Kylebooker 4m Flexible Plastic Strip** is an **excellent choice** for fly tyers looking for an affordable, durable, and realistic material. Whether you’re tying **scuds, shrimp, or pupae patterns**, this strip delivers great results at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.
For anglers who prioritize **cost-effectiveness without compromising quality**, this product is a **smart addition** to any fly-tying kit. If you’re on the fence, I’d recommend giving it a try—you might be pleasantly surprised by its performance!
**Rating: 4.5/5** (Great value, minor handling considerations)
Would you like recommendations on specific fly patterns using this material? Let me know in the comments! Happy fishing! 🎣