1 dozen (12) – Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear – NATURAL
Kerry Willcox 
# **Kylebooker 1 Dozen (12) – Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear – NATURAL: Is It Worth the Money?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality, affordable flies that can improve my chances of landing trout, panfish, and even smallmouth bass. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker 1 Dozen (12) – Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear – NATURAL** and decided to test its performance and value. After several fishing trips, here’s my detailed review of whether this fly offers good value for money.
## **Overview of the Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear Fly**
The **Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear (GRHE)** is a classic nymph pattern that imitates a variety of aquatic insects, including mayfly nymphs and caddis larvae. Its natural coloration and ribbed body make it an excellent choice for both still and moving waters. The **Kylebooker version** comes in a pack of 12, which is great for stocking up before a fishing trip.
## **Quality & Durability**
One of the first things I noticed about these flies was their **solid construction**. The hooks are sharp and sturdy, made from high-carbon steel, which helps prevent bending or breaking when fighting larger fish. The natural hare’s ear dubbing provides a lifelike texture, and the gold ribbing adds a subtle flash that can attract fish in murky water.
After using them in different conditions—rivers, streams, and small lakes—I found that they held up well even after multiple catches. Unlike some cheaper flies that unravel after a few fish, the **Kylebooker GRHE nymphs maintained their shape**, making them a reliable option for repeated use.
## **Effectiveness in Different Fishing Conditions**
I tested these flies in **various water types**, and they performed consistently well. Here’s how they fared in different scenarios:
– **Fast-Moving Rivers**: The weight of the fly allowed it to sink quickly, making it ideal for deep pools and riffles. Trout aggressively struck the nymph as it drifted naturally with the current.
– **Still Waters (Lakes & Ponds)**: When retrieved slowly, the fly imitated a swimming nymph, enticing panfish and even small bass.
– **Murky vs. Clear Water**: The gold ribbing provided just enough flash in stained water, while the natural color worked perfectly in clear streams where fish are more selective.
## **Price & Value for Money**
One of the biggest selling points of the **Kylebooker 1 Dozen pack** is its affordability. Buying flies in bulk is always a smart move, especially for a pattern as versatile as the GRHE. Compared to purchasing individual flies from premium brands, this pack offers **significant savings** without sacrificing quality.
For anglers who lose flies frequently (whether to snags or aggressive fish), having a dozen on hand ensures that you won’t run out mid-trip. The price per fly is very reasonable, making this a **cost-effective choice** for both beginners and experienced fly fishermen.
## **Potential Drawbacks**
While these flies are excellent overall, there are a couple of minor drawbacks:
1. **Sizing Consistency**: A few flies in the pack had slightly uneven proportions, but this didn’t seem to affect their effectiveness.
2. **Limited Size Options**: The pack I purchased was in a standard size (#14), but it would be great if Kylebooker offered more size variations for different fishing conditions.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
Absolutely! The **Kylebooker 1 Dozen (12) – Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear – NATURAL** is a **highly cost-effective option** for anglers who want a durable, fish-catching nymph pattern without breaking the bank. Whether you’re targeting trout in a mountain stream or panfish in a local pond, this fly delivers consistent performance.
For its price, quality, and effectiveness, I would **highly recommend** this product to any fly fisherman looking to stock up on a proven nymph pattern. It’s a great addition to any fly box and offers excellent value for money.
### **Rating: 4.5/5**
✅ **Pros**: Affordable, durable, effective in various conditions, good hook quality
❌ **Cons**: Minor inconsistencies in tying, limited size options
If you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly fly that catches fish, the **Kylebooker Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear** is definitely worth considering. Tight lines! 🎣