Metz Hackle Hatch Bundle 3PK – PMD
Kerry Willcox 
**Is the Kylebooker Metz Hackle Hatch Bundle 3PK – PMD Worth the Investment?**
For fly fishing enthusiasts, selecting the right materials can make or break a successful day on the water. The **Kylebooker Metz Hackle Hatch Bundle 3PK – PMD** has garnered attention among anglers targeting Pale Morning Dun (PMD) hatches, but is it truly a cost-effective choice? Let’s dive into its features, performance, and overall value to determine if this bundle deserves a spot in your fly-tying kit.
### **What’s in the Bundle?**
The **Metz Hackle Hatch Bundle** includes three premium-grade rooster capes specifically dyed to match the natural hues of PMD mayflies—a critical hatch for trout in many rivers. Each cape offers a range of feather sizes (typically #12–#20), ensuring versatility for tying various fly patterns like parachute Adams, comparaduns, or emergers. Metz, a renowned name in fly-tying materials, guarantees consistent quality, with feathers known for their durability, barb density, and stiffness—key traits for creating floating flies with lifelike movement.
### **Performance on the Water**
PMD hatches are notorious for selective trout, and realism matters. The bundle’s dyed feathers closely mimic the pale yellow-olive shades of natural PMDs, reducing the risk of spooking fish. Field tests highlight two advantages:
1. **Floatability**: Metz hackle’s stiff fibers resist water absorption, keeping dry flies buoyant longer.
2. **Workability**: The feathers are easy to wrap, even for intermediate tiers, and their uniform barb length simplifies proportioning.
However, some users note that the dye job, while accurate, may fade slightly after heavy use. A light UV resin coating can mitigate this.
### **Price vs. Competitors**
At **$75–$90** for the 3PK bundle (prices vary by retailer), the Metz Hackle Hatch sits in the mid-to-high range. Comparatively:
– **Whiting Farms** hackle offers similar quality but at a higher price per cape ($35–$50 each).
– **Cheaper alternatives** (e.g., Hoffman) lack the same barb consistency or color precision.
For anglers who tie PMD patterns frequently, the **cost per fly** becomes reasonable. Three capes provide enough material for hundreds of flies, making it a long-term investment.
### **Drawbacks**
1. **Limited Color Options**: The bundle focuses solely on PMD shades. If you need varied patterns, additional purchases are necessary.
2. **Overkill for Beginners**: Casual tiers might find smaller, cheaper packs more practical.
### **Verdict: High Value for Dedicated Anglers**
The **Kylebooker Metz Hackle Hatch Bundle 3PK – PMD** excels in quality and hatch-specific performance. While not the cheapest option, its durability and precision justify the price for serious fly fishers. If PMDs dominate your local waters, this bundle is a **smart, cost-efficient choice** that elevates your fly-tying game.
**Rating**: 4.5/5 (Docking half a point for colorfastness concerns).
*Pro Tip*: Pair it with a UV-resistant thread for extended longevity. Happy tying!
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