Hareline Dubbin – Hen Cape
koba yashi 
# **Kylebooker Hareline Dubbin – Hen Cape: 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 Hareline Dubbin – Hen Cape**, a product that has been gaining attention among fly fishermen. But is it really a good value for the price? In this review, I’ll break down its features, performance, and overall cost-effectiveness to help fellow anglers decide whether it’s worth adding to their tackle box.
## **Overview of the Product**
The **Hareline Dubbin Hen Cape** is a natural feather cape designed primarily for fly tying. It provides a variety of feather sizes and colors, making it versatile for different fly patterns. The cape is sourced from high-quality hen feathers, which are known for their softness and durability—essential qualities for creating realistic and effective flies.
One of the key selling points of this product is its affordability compared to premium-grade capes. While some high-end capes can cost upwards of $50 or more, the **Kylebooker Hareline Dubbin version** is priced more moderately, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious anglers who still want decent quality.
## **Quality and Durability**
When assessing the **Hareline Hen Cape**, the first thing I noticed was the feather density. While it doesn’t match the ultra-premium capes used by professional fly tiers, it offers a solid selection of hackle feathers suitable for nymphs, wet flies, and even some dry flies. The feathers are soft yet sturdy enough to withstand repeated tying and fishing.
The color selection is another strong point. The cape comes in various natural shades, including brown, black, and grizzly, which are essential for imitating different insect species. The dye job is consistent, and the feathers don’t fray excessively when handled.
However, one minor drawback is that some feathers may have slight imperfections, such as uneven barb lengths. This isn’t a dealbreaker for casual anglers, but competitive fly tiers might prefer a more uniform product.
## **Performance in Fly Tying**
In practical use, the **Hareline Hen Cape** performs well for most standard patterns. The feathers wrap smoothly around the hook, and their natural flexibility helps create lifelike movement in the water. I’ve successfully tied **Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Soft Hackles, and Woolly Buggers** using this cape, and the results were impressive for the price.
That said, if you’re looking for ultra-fine dry fly hackle, this may not be the best choice. The feathers are slightly thicker than those found on premium dry fly capes (like Whiting or Metz), so they’re better suited for wet flies and streamers.
## **Price vs. Value**
The biggest advantage of the **Kylebooker Hareline Dubbin – Hen Cape** is its affordability. At around **$15–$25** (depending on the retailer), it’s significantly cheaper than top-tier options while still delivering decent quality. For beginners or intermediate fly tiers, this makes it an excellent entry-level material.
If you’re a professional tier who demands the absolute best, you might want to invest in a higher-end cape. But for most anglers who tie flies for personal use, this product offers **great value for the money**.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
**Pros:**
✔ Affordable compared to premium capes
✔ Good feather density and color options
✔ Works well for nymphs, wet flies, and streamers
✔ Durable enough for regular use
**Cons:**
✖ Not ideal for ultra-fine dry fly hackle
✖ Some minor feather imperfections
**Conclusion:** The **Kylebooker Hareline Dubbin – Hen Cape** is a **solid mid-range option** for fly tiers who want decent quality without breaking the bank. While it may not replace high-end capes for delicate dry flies, it’s a fantastic choice for general tying purposes. If you’re looking for a **budget-friendly yet reliable** hen cape, this product is definitely worth considering.
Would I recommend it? **Yes—especially for beginners and intermediate fly fishermen who want good performance at a reasonable price.**
Have you tried this hen cape? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🎣