1 dozen (12) – Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear – FLASH BACK – Bead Head
Jimmy Hewitson 
**Kylebooker 1 Dozen (12) – Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear – FLASH BACK – Bead Head: A Review on Value for Money**
For fly fishing enthusiasts, selecting the right flies is crucial to a successful day on the water. The **Kylebooker 1 Dozen (12) – Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear – FLASH BACK – Bead Head** is a product that has garnered attention for its affordability and quality. But does it truly offer good value for money? In this review, we’ll examine its features, performance, and overall cost-effectiveness to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your tackle box.
### **Product Overview**
This pack includes **12 Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear nymphs**, each featuring a **flashback ribbing and a brass bead head**. The Hare’s Ear is a classic fly pattern known for its versatility, imitating a wide range of aquatic insects such as mayflies, caddis larvae, and even small crustaceans. The addition of a **flashback** enhances visibility underwater, while the **bead head** adds weight for faster sinking and a more lifelike movement.
### **Quality & Durability**
One of the primary concerns with budget-friendly flies is durability. Cheaply tied flies often unravel after a few catches or snags. However, the **Kylebooker Hare’s Ear** holds up surprisingly well. The thread wraps are tight, the dubbing is well-applied, and the bead is securely fixed. While they may not match the craftsmanship of premium hand-tied flies, they are certainly durable enough for regular use.
The **hook quality** is decent—sharp enough for solid hooksets but not as refined as high-end brands like Umpqua or Orvis. That said, for the price, the performance is more than acceptable.
### **Performance on the Water**
The **Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear** is a proven fish-catcher, and this version is no exception. The **flashback ribbing** adds an extra trigger, especially in murky water or low-light conditions. The **bead head** ensures the fly sinks quickly, making it ideal for nymphing in deeper runs.
In testing, these flies consistently attracted trout, panfish, and even smallmouth bass. The action in the water is natural, and the fly maintains its shape even after multiple strikes. The only minor drawback is that the **flash material can wear out over time**, but given the pack includes 12 flies, replacements are readily available.
### **Price & Value**
The biggest selling point of this product is its **cost-effectiveness**. A dozen well-tied Hare’s Ear nymphs at this price point is hard to beat. Many anglers lose flies to snags or toothy fish, so having an affordable bulk option is a smart choice.
Compared to individual flies from premium brands (which can cost $2-$3 each), the **Kylebooker pack offers significant savings**. Even if a few flies get damaged or lost, you still have plenty left without breaking the bank.
### **Who Should Buy This?**
– **Beginner anglers** who want reliable flies without a hefty investment.
– **Seasoned fishermen** looking for a cost-effective backup supply.
– **Guide services or fly-tying clubs** that need bulk flies for clients or workshops.
### **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
Yes, the **Kylebooker 1 Dozen Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear – FLASH BACK – Bead Head** offers **excellent value for money**. While they may not last as long as premium flies, the **affordability, decent durability, and fish-catching ability** make them a solid choice for any fly angler. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet effective nymph option, this pack is a great investment.
**Rating: 4.5/5** (Excellent for the price, minor room for improvement in hook sharpness and flash longevity.)
Would you recommend these flies to a fellow angler? Share your thoughts in the comments! Tight lines! 🎣