# **Kylebooker Senyo’s Shaggy Dubbing: Is It Worth the Money?**
As an avid fly fisherman, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality materials that can improve my tying and increase my chances of success on the water. Recently, I came across **Kylebooker Senyo’s Shaggy Dubbing**, a product that has gained attention among fly tiers for its unique texture and versatility. But the big question is: **Does it offer good value for the price?**
In this review, I’ll break down the key aspects of this dubbing—its performance, durability, and overall cost-effectiveness—to help fellow anglers decide whether it’s a worthwhile addition to their fly-tying arsenal.
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## **What Is Shaggy Dubbing?**
For those unfamiliar, **Shaggy Dubbing** is a synthetic dubbing material developed by Kylebooker Senyo, a well-known fly designer and tier. Unlike traditional dubbing, which can be smooth or slightly textured, this product has a **shaggy, fibrous consistency** that creates a more lifelike movement in the water. It’s particularly popular for streamers, nymphs, and other patterns where a **buggy, pulsating effect** is desired.
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## **Performance on the Water**
The most important factor in evaluating any fly-tying material is **how well it performs when wet**. After testing Shaggy Dubbing on several patterns—including woolly buggers, leech imitations, and stonefly nymphs—I noticed a few key advantages:
1. **Superior Movement** – The fibers undulate naturally in the current, mimicking the motion of aquatic insects and small baitfish. This makes it especially effective for **predatory fish like trout and bass**.
2. **Quick Sinking** – Unlike some dubbings that trap air bubbles, Shaggy Dubbing absorbs water quickly, helping flies sink faster—a big plus for deep nymphing.
3. **Durability** – Even after multiple catches, the fibers remain intact, resisting fraying better than many natural fur alternatives.
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## **Ease of Use in Fly Tying**
Another critical aspect is **how easy it is to work with**. Here’s what I found:
✅ **Blends Well** – It mixes nicely with other dubbings, allowing for custom color combinations.
✅ **Stays in Place** – Unlike some synthetic dubbings that can be slippery, this material grips the thread well when twisted.
✅ **Versatile Applications** – Works for both **sparse and dense patterns**, from thin-bodied nymphs to bulky streamers.
However, beginners might find it slightly trickier to control than smoother dubbings, as the fibers can be a bit unruly if not handled carefully.
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## **Price vs. Quality: Is It Worth It?**
Now, the **big question—does the cost justify the benefits?**
Shaggy Dubbing is priced slightly higher than standard synthetic dubbings but is still **more affordable than premium natural furs** (like hare’s mask or seal fur). Considering its **durability and effectiveness**, I’d say it offers **good long-term value**.
– **Pros:**
– Excellent movement in water
– Long-lasting
– Wide range of colors
– **Cons:**
– Slightly higher price than basic synthetics
– Requires a bit of practice to apply neatly
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## **Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?**
If you tie a lot of **streamers, nymphs, or leech patterns**, **Kylebooker Senyo’s Shaggy Dubbing** is definitely worth trying. While it’s not the cheapest option available, its **performance and durability** make it a solid investment for serious fly tiers.
For beginners, I’d recommend starting with a single color to test before committing to a full set. But for experienced anglers looking to enhance their flies’ realism and action, this dubbing is a **great addition to the tying bench**.
### **Rating: 4.5/5**
(Highly recommended for streamer and nymph patterns!)
Have you tried Shaggy Dubbing? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🎣