# **Kylebooker 8 Artificial CDC Dry Flies Fly Tying Barbless Dry Fly Fishing: A Cost-Effective Choice?**
For avid fly fishermen, selecting the right dry flies can make a significant difference in fishing success. The **Kylebooker 8 Artificial CDC Dry Flies Fly Tying Barbless Dry Fly Fishing** set has gained attention among anglers for its affordability and practicality. But is it truly a cost-effective option? This review explores its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your tackle box.
## **Key Features of Kylebooker CDC Dry Flies**
1. **High-Quality CDC Feathers**
CDC (Cul de Canard) feathers are highly regarded in fly fishing for their natural buoyancy and lifelike movement. The Kylebooker set uses artificial CDC, which mimics the properties of real CDC while being more durable and consistent in performance.
2. **Barbless Hooks for Ethical Fishing**
These flies come with barbless hooks, making them ideal for catch-and-release fishing. Barbless hooks reduce harm to fish, ensuring a more ethical angling experience while also complying with regulations in many fisheries.
3. **Variety in Design**
The set includes eight different patterns, each designed to imitate various insects such as mayflies, caddisflies, and midges. This variety increases the chances of matching the hatch, a crucial factor in dry fly fishing.
4. **Lightweight and Realistic**
The artificial CDC material provides excellent floatation, allowing the flies to sit naturally on the water’s surface. Their realistic appearance and movement make them attractive to trout and other freshwater species.
## **Performance on the Water**
Many users report that these flies perform well in both still waters and moving streams. Their buoyancy keeps them afloat even after multiple casts, reducing the need for frequent reapplication of floatant. The barbless design ensures quick hooksets and easy release, which is beneficial for both fish and angler.
However, some fishermen note that artificial CDC may not be as soft or flexible as natural CDC, which could slightly affect presentation. Despite this, the flies still produce consistent strikes, especially in clear water where trout are selective.
## **Durability and Longevity**
One of the biggest advantages of artificial CDC is its resistance to waterlogging. Unlike natural CDC, which can lose buoyancy over time, these flies maintain their floating ability longer. The hooks are sharp and sturdy, though they may require occasional sharpening after extended use.
## **Price vs. Value**
Compared to premium-brand CDC dry flies, the Kylebooker set is significantly more affordable. While high-end flies may offer slightly better craftsmanship, this set provides excellent performance at a fraction of the cost. For budget-conscious anglers or those who lose flies frequently, this makes the Kylebooker set a smart investment.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
If you’re looking for an affordable, durable, and effective dry fly option, the **Kylebooker 8 Artificial CDC Dry Flies** are a solid choice. While they may not match the absolute best natural CDC flies in terms of delicacy, their buoyancy, variety, and ethical design make them a great value. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this set is worth considering for your next fishing trip.
**Rating: 4.2/5**
**Pros:** Affordable, durable, barbless hooks, good floatation, multiple patterns.
**Cons:** Artificial CDC may not be as soft as natural CDC.
For the price, these flies deliver reliable performance, making them a cost-effective addition to any fly fishing arsenal.