# **Kylebooker 1 x ICE DUB Montage/Fly Tying Dubbing – Paon/Peacock Fly Tying Fiber: A Comprehensive Review on Value for Money**
As an avid fly fisherman, I am always on the lookout for high-quality materials that enhance my fly-tying experience. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker 1 x ICE DUB Montage/Fly Tying Dubbing in Paon/Peacock**, and I was curious about its performance and value for money. After testing it extensively, I’m ready to share my thoughts on whether this product is worth adding to your fly-tying kit.
## **Product Overview**
The **Kylebooker ICE DUB** is a synthetic dubbing material designed for fly tying, particularly for creating lifelike nymphs, streamers, and dry flies. The **Paon/Peacock** color variant mimics the iridescent sheen of natural peacock herl, making it an excellent choice for patterns like the **Pheasant Tail Nymph, Prince Nymph, and even Woolly Buggers**.
### **Key Features:**
– **Synthetic blend** – Durable and consistent compared to natural peacock herl.
– **Iridescent effect** – Captures light beautifully, adding realism to flies.
– **Fine texture** – Easy to blend and apply with a dubbing loop or wax.
– **Versatile use** – Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater patterns.
## **Performance and Usability**
### **1. Ease of Use**
One of the biggest advantages of **ICE DUB** is its fine, slightly coarse texture, which makes it easy to handle. Unlike natural peacock herl, which can be brittle and difficult to work with, this synthetic alternative is more forgiving. It adheres well to thread when waxed and doesn’t clump excessively, allowing for smooth dubbing noodles.
### **2. Durability**
Natural peacock herl tends to break down after a few fish strikes, but **Kylebooker’s ICE DUB** holds up much better. The synthetic fibers resist fraying, ensuring that flies maintain their shape and attractiveness longer. This is particularly beneficial for nymph patterns that endure multiple strikes.
### **3. Visual Appeal**
The **Paon/Peacock** shade is stunning—it has a deep green/blue iridescence that closely resembles natural peacock. When wet, it retains its shimmer, making it highly effective for attracting fish. Whether used as a body material or as a subtle flash in a dubbed thorax, it adds a realistic touch to flies.
## **Price vs. Quality: Is It Worth It?**
When evaluating the **cost-effectiveness** of this dubbing, several factors come into play:
– **Affordability**: Compared to premium brands like **Hareline or Wapsi**, Kylebooker’s ICE DUB is reasonably priced, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced tiers.
– **Quantity**: A single pack provides enough material for dozens of flies, ensuring good value per fly tied.
– **Longevity**: Since it doesn’t degrade as quickly as natural materials, you get more use out of it over time.
### **Potential Drawbacks**
– Some fly tyers prefer the **organic feel** of real peacock herl, which has a slightly different texture.
– While the iridescence is excellent, it may not perfectly match certain traditional patterns that rely on natural herl.
## **Final Verdict: A Solid Choice for Fly Tyers**
If you’re looking for a **cost-effective, durable, and visually appealing** alternative to natural peacock herl, the **Kylebooker ICE DUB in Paon/Peacock** is a fantastic option. It offers excellent workability, longevity, and a realistic sheen that fish find irresistible. While purists might still favor natural materials for certain patterns, this synthetic dubbing is a **reliable and budget-friendly addition** to any fly-tying arsenal.
For anglers who tie flies frequently and want a material that performs well without breaking the bank, this product delivers **great value for money**. I highly recommend giving it a try!
Would you like recommendations on specific fly patterns that work best with this dubbing? Let me know in the comments!
**Tight lines and happy tying!** 🎣