Fly-Rite Dubbing Portfolio ~ Poly-Wiggle ~ #10 Rust Brown & #12 Dark Olive
Ben Carmichael 
# **Kylebooker Fly-Rite Dubbing Portfolio – Poly-Wiggle – #10 Rust Brown & #12 Dark Olive: A Worthwhile Investment?**
For fly-tying enthusiasts, selecting the right dubbing material is crucial for creating effective and durable flies. The **Kylebooker Fly-Rite Dubbing Portfolio – Poly-Wiggle – #10 Rust Brown & #12 Dark Olive** is a popular choice among anglers, but how does it measure up in terms of value for money? In this review, we’ll examine its quality, versatility, and overall cost-effectiveness to determine whether it’s a smart addition to your fly-tying toolkit.
## **Quality & Material**
The **Poly-Wiggle** dubbing from Kylebooker is designed to provide a lifelike movement in the water, mimicking the natural motion of insect nymphs and larvae. The blend consists of synthetic fibers that are slightly coarse, allowing for better adherence to the thread while still maintaining a soft, buggy appearance.
The **#10 Rust Brown** and **#12 Dark Olive** shades are particularly useful for imitating common aquatic insects like mayflies, caddis larvae, and midges. The fibers hold well when twisted onto the thread, reducing the risk of shedding during tying or casting. Additionally, the material is hydrophobic, meaning it doesn’t absorb water, helping flies stay buoyant when needed.
## **Versatility in Fly Patterns**
One of the biggest advantages of this dubbing is its adaptability. The **Rust Brown (#10)** is excellent for tying **Pheasant Tail Nymphs, Hare’s Ears, and Copper Johns**, while the **Dark Olive (#12)** works well for **Zebra Midges, Olive Scuds, and emerging caddis patterns**.
The **Poly-Wiggle** texture adds a subtle wiggle effect when submerged, enhancing the fly’s attractiveness to fish. Whether you’re targeting trout, panfish, or even smallmouth bass, these colors and textures can be highly effective in various water conditions.
## **Durability & Ease of Use**
Unlike some natural dubbings that can mat down or lose their effectiveness after a few fish, the synthetic fibers in Kylebooker’s blend maintain their structure well. The material is also easy to work with—whether applying it with a dubbing loop or simply twisting it onto the thread, it distributes evenly without clumping.
Another benefit is its resistance to UV degradation, meaning the colors won’t fade quickly even after prolonged exposure to sunlight. This makes it a reliable long-term investment compared to cheaper alternatives that may lose vibrancy over time.
## **Price & Value**
The **Fly-Rite Dubbing Portfolio** typically comes in small, resealable packets, which helps keep the material fresh and prevents waste. While the initial cost may seem slightly higher than bulk synthetic dubbing, the quality justifies the price.
Considering how little dubbing is needed per fly, a single packet can last for dozens of ties, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. Additionally, the inclusion of two versatile colors (**Rust Brown & Dark Olive**) in one portfolio adds to its value, as both shades are staples in many fly patterns.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?**
For fly-tiers looking for a durable, high-quality dubbing that enhances fly movement and realism, the **Kylebooker Fly-Rite Dubbing Portfolio – Poly-Wiggle – #10 Rust Brown & #12 Dark Olive** is a solid choice. While it may not be the cheapest option available, its performance, longevity, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment.
If you frequently tie nymphs and wet flies, this dubbing will help you create effective patterns that attract more strikes. For those on a tight budget, purchasing individual colors might be an alternative, but the bundled portfolio offers convenience and ensures you have two essential shades ready for various fishing scenarios.
### **Conclusion: Highly Recommended for Serious Fly-Tiers**
Overall, the **Kylebooker Poly-Wiggle Dubbing** delivers excellent quality and functionality, making it a great addition to any angler’s fly-tying materials. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced tier, this product provides good value for money and will likely improve your fly patterns’ effectiveness on the water.
Would you recommend this dubbing to others? Based on its performance, the answer is a resounding **yes**.
High-quality, sharp hooks
May bend under heavy pressure