LATERAL SCALE – Fly Tying Flash Material Saltwater Flashabou Musky Bucktail NEW!
# **Kylebooker LATERAL SCALE – Fly Tying Flash Material Saltwater Flashabou Musky Bucktail NEW! – Is It Worth the Money?**
As an avid angler, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality fly-tying materials that can enhance my fishing experience. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker LATERAL SCALE**, a new flash material designed for saltwater fly tying, Musky, and bucktail applications. The product claims to offer superior reflectivity, durability, and versatility, but how does it really perform? In this review, I’ll break down its features, benefits, and overall value to help fellow anglers decide whether it’s worth adding to their tackle box.
## **Product Overview**
The **Kylebooker LATERAL SCALE** is a specialized flash material primarily used for tying flies that mimic baitfish, shrimp, and other aquatic prey. Its key selling points include:
– **High-Reflective Lateral Scales** – Designed to create a lifelike shimmer in the water, attracting predatory fish like Musky, Pike, and saltwater species.
– **Durable & Tangle-Resistant** – Unlike some flash materials that fray easily, this product is engineered to withstand aggressive strikes.
– **Versatile Applications** – Suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fly tying, including streamers, bucktail jigs, and even spinnerbaits.
– **New & Improved Formula** – The latest version claims better UV resistance and color retention.
## **Performance & Practical Use**
### **1. Reflectivity & Attraction**
One of the standout features of the **LATERAL SCALE** is its ability to reflect light in a way that mimics fish scales. In my tests, flies tied with this material produced a more natural flash compared to standard Flashabou or Krystal Flash. The lateral scale pattern creates a 3D effect underwater, making it particularly effective in murky or low-light conditions.
### **2. Durability & Handling**
Many flash materials tend to fray or lose strands after repeated use, but the **Kylebooker LATERAL SCALE** holds up well. It’s slightly thicker than traditional Flashabou, which helps prevent tangling while tying. Additionally, it doesn’t discolor quickly, even after extended exposure to saltwater.
### **3. Versatility in Fly Patterns**
I’ve successfully used this material in:
– **Saltwater streamers** (for Tarpon, Redfish, and Striped Bass)
– **Musky and Pike flies** (as an accent in bucktail or synthetic hair patterns)
– **Bass jigs & spinnerbaits** (adding extra flash to attract reaction strikes)
The material cuts cleanly with scissors and doesn’t shed excessively, making it easy to work with.
## **Price & Value for Money**
Compared to other premium flash materials like **Hareline Dubbin’s Ice Dub** or **Conrad Flash**, the **Kylebooker LATERAL SCALE** is competitively priced. A single pack (depending on size) typically ranges between **$8-$12**, which is reasonable given its durability and performance.
### **Pros:**
✅ Excellent light reflection for better fish attraction
✅ Stronger than standard Flashabou, reducing fraying
✅ Works well in both freshwater and saltwater
✅ Retains color and shine after multiple uses
### **Cons:**
❌ Slightly stiffer than some ultra-thin flash materials, which may affect movement in very small flies
❌ Limited color options compared to other brands
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
If you’re serious about tying high-performance flies for predatory fish, the **Kylebooker LATERAL SCALE** is a solid investment. Its enhanced durability and superior flash make it a great upgrade from traditional materials. While it may not be the best choice for ultra-delicate patterns, it excels in larger streamers, bucktail jigs, and saltwater applications.
For anglers targeting **Musky, Pike, Tarpon, or Striped Bass**, this material could be a game-changer in your fly box. Considering its reasonable price and longevity, it offers **good value for money**.
Would I recommend it? **Absolutely.** If you want flies that stand out in the water and last longer, the **Kylebooker LATERAL SCALE** is worth trying. Tight lines! 🎣