Wapsi Barred Round Rubber for Fly Tying – Purple／Black
# **Kylebooker Wapsi Barred Round Rubber for Fly Tying – Purple/Black: A Worthwhile Investment?**
As an avid fly-tier and fishing enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that enhance my fly patterns while offering good value for money. Recently, I came across the **Kylebooker Wapsi Barred Round Rubber for Fly Tying in Purple/Black**, and after extensive testing, I’m ready to share my thoughts on its performance, durability, and overall cost-effectiveness.
## **Quality and Material**
The **Kylebooker Wapsi Barred Round Rubber** is designed specifically for fly tying, offering a unique barred pattern that mimics natural insect legs and tails. The **Purple/Black** color combination is particularly effective for attracting fish in various water conditions, making it a versatile choice for different fly patterns, such as woolly buggers, leeches, and streamers.
The rubber itself is **soft yet durable**, allowing for easy cutting and wrapping without fraying. Unlike some cheaper alternatives, this material maintains its elasticity even after prolonged use, ensuring that flies tied with it remain effective over multiple fishing trips.
## **Performance on the Water**
One of the key factors in evaluating any fly-tying material is how well it performs in actual fishing scenarios. I tied several flies using the **Kylebooker Wapsi Barred Round Rubber**, including a few **purple/black leech patterns**, and tested them in both still and moving water.
The **barred pattern** creates a lifelike movement in the water, mimicking the natural undulation of insect legs. This proved highly effective in enticing strikes from **bass, trout, and panfish**. The **contrasting colors (purple and black)** worked exceptionally well in low-light conditions, making it a great choice for early morning or late evening fishing.
## **Durability and Longevity**
A common issue with rubber-based fly-tying materials is that they can degrade quickly, especially when exposed to UV rays or repeated strikes. However, the **Kylebooker Wapsi Barred Round Rubber** holds up well under pressure. Even after multiple catches, the rubber strands remained intact without excessive stretching or breaking.
Additionally, the material is **resistant to water absorption**, meaning it doesn’t become stiff or brittle after drying. This ensures that flies tied with this rubber maintain their action and appearance over time.
## **Price and Value for Money**
When it comes to **cost-effectiveness**, the **Kylebooker Wapsi Barred Round Rubber** sits in the mid-to-high price range compared to other fly-tying rubbers. However, considering its **durability, performance, and versatility**, it offers excellent value for serious fly-tiers.
A single pack provides enough material for **dozens of flies**, making it a worthwhile investment for anglers who tie frequently. While cheaper alternatives exist, they often lack the same level of **texture, elasticity, and color retention**, meaning you may end up spending more in the long run by replacing inferior products.
## **Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?**
If you’re looking for a **high-quality, durable, and effective** rubber material for fly tying, the **Kylebooker Wapsi Barred Round Rubber in Purple/Black** is a solid choice. Its **realistic movement, strong UV resistance, and long-lasting performance** make it a favorite among fly-tiers who prioritize quality over cost.
While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its **superior performance and longevity** justify the price. Whether you’re tying **streamers, nymphs, or bass flies**, this rubber will enhance your patterns and help you catch more fish.
### **Rating: 4.5/5**
– **Pros:** Excellent movement, durable, UV-resistant, great color contrast
– **Cons:** Slightly more expensive than basic rubber strands
For anglers who want **reliable and effective fly-tying materials**, the **Kylebooker Wapsi Barred Round Rubber** is definitely worth adding to your tying kit. Tight lines!