# **Kylebooker HARELINE HEN CAPE – Fly Tying Soft Hackle Neck Feathers – 6 Colors Available! Is It Worth the Money?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that enhance my fly-tying experience. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker HARELINE HEN CAPE**, a product marketed for its soft hackle neck feathers, available in six different colors. But the big question is: **Does it offer good value for money?**
In this review, I’ll break down the key features, compare it with similar products, and evaluate whether this cape is a worthwhile investment for fly tyers.
## **Product Overview**
The **Kylebooker HARELINE HEN CAPE** is designed specifically for tying soft hackle flies, which are essential for imitating emerging insects in trout fishing. The feathers are sourced from high-quality hen necks, known for their fine barbules and natural movement in water.
### **Key Features:**
✔ **Six Color Options** – Available in natural and dyed shades, allowing for versatility in fly patterns.
✔ **Soft & Webby Feathers** – Ideal for creating lifelike movement in nymphs and wet flies.
✔ **Durable & Consistent Quality** – Each cape is carefully selected to ensure uniformity in feather size and texture.
✔ **Affordable Price Point** – Compared to premium-grade rooster capes, this product offers a budget-friendly alternative.
## **Performance & Usability**
One of the standout qualities of the **HARELINE HEN CAPE** is its **softness and flexibility**. Unlike stiff rooster hackles, hen feathers have a more delicate structure, making them perfect for **soft hackle flies, spiders, and wet flies**.
When tested in the water, the feathers pulsate naturally, mimicking the movement of insect legs or wings. This is crucial for enticing strikes from selective trout. Additionally, the **dyed colors hold well**, meaning they won’t bleed excessively when wet.
### **Comparison with Other Brands**
To assess its value, I compared it with two popular alternatives:
1. **Whiting Farms Hen Cape** – Known for premium quality but priced significantly higher.
2. **Metz Micro Hackle** – A mid-range option with good consistency but fewer color choices.
The **Kylebooker HARELINE HEN CAPE** sits comfortably in the **mid-to-budget range**, offering a balance between affordability and performance. While it may not match the elite-grade feathers of Whiting Farms, it delivers **excellent value for casual and intermediate fly tyers**.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
No product is perfect, and there are a few considerations:
– **Feather Density**: Some users might find the feather density slightly lower than premium capes, meaning fewer feathers per square inch.
– **Limited Sizing**: The feathers are best suited for smaller flies (sizes 12-18). If you need larger hackles, a rooster cape might be a better choice.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
If you’re looking for a **cost-effective, high-quality hen cape** for tying soft hackle flies, the **Kylebooker HARELINE HEN CAPE** is a solid choice. The **six color options** provide great versatility, and the feathers perform well in the water.
While it may not replace top-tier hackles for competitive fly tyers, it’s an **excellent option for beginners and intermediate anglers** who want reliable materials without overspending.
### **Rating: 4.3/5**
✅ **Pros:** Affordable, good color selection, natural movement in water.
❌ **Cons:** Slightly less dense than premium capes, best for smaller flies.
**Final Recommendation:** If you’re on a budget but still want quality soft hackle feathers, this product is definitely worth considering!
Would you like recommendations on specific fly patterns to tie with this cape? Let me know in the comments! 🎣