Firehole Sticks 551 – Fly Tying Hooks – Jig Style
Jimmy Hewitson 
# **Kylebooker Firehole Sticks 551 – Fly Tying Hooks – Jig Style: Are They Worth the Price?**
For fly fishing enthusiasts, choosing the right hook is crucial for success. The **Kylebooker Firehole Sticks 551** is a jig-style fly tying hook that has gained attention among anglers. But how does it perform in terms of quality, durability, and value for money? In this review, we鈥檒l analyze whether these hooks live up to the hype and if they are a worthwhile investment for fly tiers.
## **Overview of the Firehole Sticks 551**
The **Firehole Sticks 551** is a jig-style hook designed specifically for fly tying. It features a **wide gap, heavy wire construction**, and a **downward-pointing eye**, which helps improve hook-setting efficiency. These hooks are popular for nymphs, streamers, and other subsurface patterns where a strong, sharp, and reliable hook is essential.
### **Key Features:**
– **Heavy-Duty Wire**: Ensures durability when battling larger fish.
– **Sharp Point**: Laser-sharpened for better penetration.
– **Jig-Style Bend**: Helps prevent snags and improves hooking efficiency.
– **Black Nickel Finish**: Corrosion-resistant and aesthetically pleasing.
– **Wide Gap Design**: Increases hook-up ratios, especially with bulky flies.
## **Performance in the Water**
One of the biggest advantages of the **Firehole Sticks 551** is its **strength-to-size ratio**. Unlike some standard hooks that may bend under pressure, these hooks hold up well against aggressive fish like trout, bass, and even smallmouth.
The **jig-style design** keeps the fly riding hook-point-up, reducing snags on rocky bottoms鈥攁 common issue with traditional nymph hooks. Additionally, the **laser-sharpened point** ensures solid hook sets, even with subtle strikes.
## **Durability & Longevity**
Many anglers report that these hooks **resist rust better than standard hooks**, thanks to the black nickel finish. However, like all hooks, they will eventually corrode if not dried properly after use. Still, compared to cheaper alternatives, the **Firehole Sticks 551** offers better longevity.
## **Price & Value for Money**
The biggest question is whether these hooks are **worth the price**. While they are **more expensive than budget hooks**, their **performance and durability** justify the cost for serious fly anglers.
– **Pros:**
– Strong, sharp, and reliable.
– Excellent hook-up ratio.
– Resists corrosion better than many competitors.
– Ideal for nymphs and streamers.
– **Cons:**
– Higher price point than generic hooks.
– Limited size availability in some retailers.
## **Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?**
If you鈥檙e a fly angler who prioritizes **quality and performance**, the **Kylebooker Firehole Sticks 551** is an excellent choice. While they may not be the cheapest option, their **strength, sharpness, and snag-resistant design** make them a **great investment** for those who tie and fish subsurface patterns frequently.
For occasional anglers, cheaper alternatives may suffice, but for serious fly tiers and competitive fishermen, the **Firehole Sticks 551** delivers **exceptional value** and reliability.
Would you try these hooks? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! 馃帲