Ice Dubbing, Fly Tying Material
Jeff Smith 
# **Kylebooker Ice Dubbing, Fly Tying Material: Is It Worth the Money?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality yet affordable fly-tying materials. Recently, I came across **Kylebooker Ice Dubbing**, a synthetic dubbing designed for creating flashy, lifelike nymphs and streamers. But the big question is: **Does it offer good value for money?** After testing it extensively, here’s my detailed review.
## **What Is Kylebooker Ice Dubbing?**
Kylebooker Ice Dubbing is a synthetic fly-tying material that mimics the natural shimmer of insect exoskeletons and small baitfish. It’s made from fine, UV-reactive fibers that reflect light underwater, making it an excellent choice for attracting fish in various conditions. The dubbing comes in multiple colors, allowing anglers to match different hatches and water conditions.
## **Performance and Versatility**
One of the standout features of **Kylebooker Ice Dubbing** is its **exceptional sparkle and movement** in the water. Unlike traditional dubbing, which can look flat, this material adds a subtle flash that mimics the natural iridescence of aquatic insects. I’ve used it to tie **pheasant tail nymphs, scuds, and midge patterns**, and the results have been impressive—trout and panfish seem particularly drawn to it.
Another advantage is its **ease of use**. The fibers blend well with other materials, and it doesn’t clump like some cheaper alternatives. Whether you’re dubbing a tight body or creating a more buggy appearance, this material holds its shape well.
## **Durability and Value**
A major concern with synthetic dubbing is durability—some brands fray or lose their sparkle after a few casts. However, **Kylebooker Ice Dubbing holds up well**, even after multiple fish strikes. The fibers remain intact, and the UV-reactive properties don’t fade quickly, which is a big plus.
In terms of **cost**, this dubbing is competitively priced compared to premium brands like Hareline or Spirit River. A single pack lasts a long time since a little goes a long way in fly tying. If you’re tying dozens of flies, the **cost per fly remains low**, making it a budget-friendly option for both beginners and experienced tiers.
## **Comparison with Other Brands**
To assess its true value, I compared **Kylebooker Ice Dubbing** with two popular alternatives:
1. **Hareline Ice Dub** – Slightly more expensive but offers similar sparkle and durability.
2. **Spirit River UV Dub** – Higher-end with stronger UV reflection, but at a steeper price.
While Kylebooker may not have the same brand recognition, it delivers **comparable performance at a lower cost**, making it a smart choice for anglers who want quality without overspending.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
If you’re looking for a **budget-friendly, high-performance dubbing** that adds flash to your flies, **Kylebooker Ice Dubbing is an excellent choice**. It’s durable, easy to work with, and produces effective patterns that attract fish. While it may not have the prestige of top-tier brands, its **price-to-performance ratio makes it a great value**.
For fly tiers who want to experiment with different colors or need a reliable material for everyday use, this dubbing is definitely worth trying. **Highly recommended for both beginners and seasoned anglers!**
Would you give it a try? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! 🎣