# **Kylebooker Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn Fly Tying Same As Aunt Lydia 20 Colors: A Comprehensive Review on Value for Money**
As an avid fly-tying enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that offer both performance and affordability. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn Fly Tying** set, which is marketed as being the same as **Aunt Lydia’s** popular yarn but available in **20 vibrant colors**. Naturally, I was intrigued—could this be a budget-friendly alternative without compromising quality? After testing it extensively, here’s my detailed assessment of its **cost-effectiveness and overall value**.
## **Quality and Durability**
One of the first things I noticed about this yarn is its **texture and sheen**. The **sparkle effect** is subtle yet effective, making it ideal for creating **realistic crab and shrimp patterns**. Unlike some cheaper synthetic yarns that fray easily, the **Kylebooker Merkin yarn holds up well** when wrapped and trimmed. It maintains its shape even after multiple casts, which is crucial for saltwater fly patterns that endure tough conditions.
Compared to **Aunt Lydia’s classic fly-tying yarn**, this product performs nearly identically. The fibers are **soft yet durable**, allowing for smooth tying without excessive bulk. Whether you’re crafting **Merkin crabs, shrimp imitations, or other crustacean patterns**, this yarn provides excellent **movement in the water**, enhancing the fly’s lifelike action.
## **Color Selection and Versatility**
With **20 colors available**, this yarn set offers **exceptional variety**. From natural **tan and olive hues** to bold **pinks and oranges**, there’s a shade for every fishing scenario. Whether you’re targeting **bonefish, permit, or redfish**, having such a broad palette ensures you can match local bait profiles accurately.
Additionally, the **sparkle element** adds an extra dimension to the flies, increasing visibility in murky waters. This is particularly useful in **low-light conditions**, where a bit of flash can make the difference between a strike and a missed opportunity.
## **Price Comparison: Is It Worth It?**
The biggest selling point of this yarn is its **affordability compared to premium brands like Aunt Lydia’s**. While branded fly-tying materials can be expensive, the **Kylebooker version delivers similar quality at a fraction of the cost**. For anglers who tie flies in bulk, this is a **major advantage**, as it allows for **cost savings without sacrificing effectiveness**.
A quick price check shows that this yarn is often **20-30% cheaper** than comparable branded options. Considering that fly tying can be an expensive hobby, finding a **budget-friendly alternative** that doesn’t compromise on quality is a win.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
No product is perfect, and there are a couple of minor issues to consider:
1. **Slight Variation in Texture** – While very close to Aunt Lydia’s, some batches may feel a tad stiffer. However, this doesn’t significantly impact performance.
2. **Limited Availability** – Depending on your location, this yarn might not be as readily stocked as mainstream brands, so bulk purchasing may be necessary.
## **Final Verdict: Excellent Value for Money**
If you’re looking for a **high-quality, budget-friendly fly-tying yarn** that mimics premium brands, the **Kylebooker Wapsi Sparkle Merkin Crab Yarn** is an excellent choice. With **20 colors**, **great durability**, and **competitive pricing**, it’s a fantastic option for both **beginners and experienced tyers**.
For anglers who frequently tie **saltwater crab and shrimp patterns**, this yarn provides **exceptional value** without cutting corners. While it may not be *identical* to Aunt Lydia’s in every aspect, the **performance-to-price ratio** makes it a **smart investment** for any fly-tying enthusiast.
**Rating: 4.5/5** (Highly recommended for cost-conscious fly tyers!)
Would you like recommendations on specific fly patterns using this yarn? Let me know—I’d be happy to share some of my favorite crab and shrimp designs! 🎣