# **Kylebooker Neon Tear Drop Eyes – Fly Tying Materials: Are They Worth the Investment?**
As an avid fly fishing enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for high-quality fly tying materials that enhance my flies’ effectiveness while remaining budget-friendly. Recently, I came across **Kylebooker Neon Tear Drop Eyes**, a product marketed as a premium yet affordable option for adding lifelike eyes to streamers, nymphs, and other fly patterns. But how do they really perform in terms of quality, durability, and value for money? In this review, I’ll break down the pros and cons to help fellow anglers decide if these are worth adding to their fly-tying arsenal.
## **What Are Kylebooker Neon Tear Drop Eyes?**
These are small, adhesive-backed, tear-drop-shaped eyes designed specifically for fly tying. They come in various vibrant neon colors, making them highly visible in different water conditions. The reflective and UV-reactive properties of these eyes can attract predatory fish such as bass, trout, and pike, increasing the chances of strikes.
### **Key Features:**
– **Bright Neon Colors** – Highly visible even in murky water.
– **Adhesive Backing** – Easy to apply without additional glue (though epoxy reinforcement is recommended for durability).
– **Multiple Sizes Available** – Suitable for different fly patterns.
– **UV-Reactive** – Enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
## **Performance & Durability**
One of the biggest concerns with fly-tying eyes is whether they stay intact after multiple casts and fish strikes. After testing the **Kylebooker Neon Tear Drop Eyes** on several streamer patterns, I found that:
– **Adhesion Strength:** The self-adhesive backing holds well initially, but for long-term durability, applying a thin layer of UV resin or superglue is advisable. Without reinforcement, the eyes may peel off after aggressive strikes.
– **Visibility Underwater:** The neon colors (especially chartreuse, pink, and orange) stand out exceptionally well, even in stained water. Fish seemed more inclined to strike flies with these eyes compared to duller alternatives.
– **UV Effectiveness:** In early morning or late evening sessions, the UV-reactive properties made a noticeable difference, as predatory fish often rely on contrast and movement in low light.
## **Price & Value for Money**
Compared to other premium brands like **Fish Skull** or **Wapsi**, Kylebooker’s offering is competitively priced. A single pack typically contains 50-100 pairs, making it a cost-effective choice for fly tiers who go through materials quickly.
– **Pros:**
– Affordable for bulk purchases.
– Wide color selection enhances versatility.
– Good adhesion (with proper reinforcement).
– **Cons:**
– Not as durable as epoxy-coated eyes.
– Some colors may fade slightly after prolonged UV exposure.
## **Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?**
If you’re looking for **budget-friendly, highly visible fly-tying eyes**, the **Kylebooker Neon Tear Drop Eyes** are a solid choice. While they may not be as rugged as some high-end alternatives, their affordability and effectiveness in attracting fish make them a great option for both beginners and experienced fly tiers.
For maximum durability, I recommend sealing them with a UV resin or epoxy. Overall, these eyes offer **excellent value for money** and can be a game-changer for anglers looking to add an extra flash to their flies without breaking the bank.
Would I buy them again? **Absolutely.** They’re a reliable, cost-effective addition to any fly-tying kit.
**Rating: 4.5/5** (Great for the price, but requires minor reinforcement for best results.)
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Would you like recommendations on specific fly patterns that work best with these eyes? Let me know—I’d be happy to share some of my favorite designs! Tight lines! 🎣