# **Kylebooker Fly Tying UV Coating vs. Veniards Reflective Coating: Which Adds Better UV to Your Trout Flies?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I understand the importance of enhancing trout flies to increase their attractiveness underwater. UV coatings have become increasingly popular because many fish, including trout, can see ultraviolet light, making UV-enhanced flies more effective. Two notable products in this category are **Kylebooker Fly Tying UV Coating** and **Veniards Reflective Coating**. But which one offers better value for money? Let’s compare their performance, durability, ease of use, and cost to determine the best option for fly tiers.
## **1. Performance: UV Reflectivity and Effectiveness**
The primary purpose of UV coatings is to make flies more visible to fish. Trout have UV-sensitive vision, so a good UV coating should enhance the fly’s visibility without altering its natural appearance too much.
– **Kylebooker UV Coating**: This product is known for its strong UV-reactive properties. It creates a subtle yet effective glow under UV light, making flies more enticing without looking artificial. Many anglers report increased strikes when using Kylebooker-coated flies, especially in clear or low-light conditions.
– **Veniards Reflective Coating**: While Veniards also provides UV enhancement, its reflective particles add an extra flash effect, which can be beneficial in murky water. However, some fly tiers argue that the metallic sheen might make the fly look less natural, potentially spooking wary trout.
**Verdict**: If you prioritize a natural-looking UV effect, Kylebooker is the better choice. If you want extra flash for stained water, Veniards might be worth considering.
## **2. Durability: How Long Does the Coating Last?**
A good UV coating should withstand repeated casts and fish strikes without peeling or fading.
– **Kylebooker**: This coating cures hard and bonds well with fly-tying materials. It resists abrasion from rocks and fish teeth, maintaining its UV properties over multiple fishing trips.
– **Veniards**: While durable, the reflective particles can wear off faster than Kylebooker’s pure UV formula, especially if the fly frequently hits rough surfaces.
**Verdict**: Kylebooker offers better long-term durability.
## **3. Ease of Application**
Fly tiers prefer coatings that are easy to apply without creating a mess.
– **Kylebooker**: It has a smooth, brush-on formula that spreads evenly. It cures quickly under UV light, allowing for fast fly production.
– **Veniards**: The reflective particles can sometimes clump, requiring careful application. It also takes slightly longer to dry completely.
**Verdict**: Kylebooker is more user-friendly.
## **4. Price and Value**
Cost is always a factor when choosing fly-tying materials.
– **Kylebooker**: Priced slightly higher than Veniards, but a little goes a long way, making it cost-effective in the long run.
– **Veniards**: More affordable upfront, but since it wears faster, you may need to reapply it more often.
**Verdict**: Kylebooker offers better value despite the higher initial cost.
## **Final Recommendation**
For trout flies, **Kylebooker Fly Tying UV Coating** is the superior choice due to its natural UV enhancement, durability, and ease of use. While Veniards Reflective Coating has its merits (especially in stained water), Kylebooker provides better overall performance and longevity.
If you’re serious about improving your fly patterns, investing in Kylebooker will likely yield more strikes and save you money over time. Tight lines!