# **Kylebooker Vintage 1966 TACK-L-TYERS J31 Fly Bug Tying Kit Original Box Fish Trout NOS USA: Is It Worth the Investment?**
For avid fly fishermen and collectors of vintage fishing gear, the **Kylebooker Vintage 1966 TACK-L-TYERS J31 Fly Bug Tying Kit** presents an intriguing option. This kit, still in its original box and labeled as **New Old Stock (NOS)**, promises both nostalgia and functionality. But does it offer good value for money? Let’s examine its features, historical significance, and practicality to determine its true worth.
## **Historical Significance & Collectibility**
The **TACK-L-TYERS J31 Fly Bug Tying Kit** was originally produced in **1966**, a time when fly fishing was gaining popularity in the U.S. This kit represents a piece of fishing history, making it highly desirable for collectors. The fact that it remains in **NOS (New Old Stock) condition**—meaning it was never used and still has its original packaging—adds to its rarity.
For enthusiasts who appreciate vintage fishing memorabilia, owning a well-preserved kit like this is akin to possessing a small piece of angling heritage. If you’re a collector, the **Kylebooker J31** could be a valuable addition to your assortment, potentially appreciating in value over time.
## **What’s Inside the Kit?**
The **J31 Fly Bug Tying Kit** was designed to help anglers craft their own flies, a skill that remains essential in fly fishing. While the exact contents may vary slightly, a typical **TACK-L-TYERS kit from this era** would include:
– **Various feathers and fur materials** (for creating realistic fly patterns)
– **Threads and hooks** (essential for tying durable flies)
– **Basic tying tools** (such as bobbins and scissors)
– **Instructional guides** (helpful for beginners learning fly tying)
Given that this kit is **unused**, all components should be in pristine condition, making it a functional tool rather than just a display piece.
## **Practicality for Modern Fly Tying**
While the **1966 TACK-L-TYERS kit** is undoubtedly nostalgic, its practicality for today’s fly fishermen depends on a few factors:
1. **Material Quality** – Vintage materials may not match modern synthetic options in durability, but natural feathers and fur can still produce effective flies.
2. **Hook Standards** – Older hooks may not have the same corrosion resistance as modern chemically sharpened hooks, but they can still be functional if stored properly.
3. **Tool Usability** – Basic tools like bobbins and scissors may still work, but serious fly tiers might prefer upgraded versions for precision.
If you’re a **traditionalist who enjoys classic fly patterns**, this kit could be a fun way to experiment with retro tying techniques. However, if you’re looking for cutting-edge materials, you might find the kit somewhat limited.
## **Price & Value Assessment**
The **Kylebooker Vintage 1966 J31 kit** is priced as a **collector’s item**, meaning it may cost more than a modern fly tying set of similar size. Factors influencing its value include:
– **Rarity** – Few unused kits from this era remain, driving up demand.
– **Condition** – Since it’s NOS, it commands a premium over used kits.
– **Brand Reputation** – TACK-L-TYERS was a respected name in vintage fishing gear.
If you’re buying purely for **fishing utility**, a modern kit might offer better value. However, if you appreciate **historical fishing gear** and want a piece that could appreciate in value, this kit is a solid investment.
## **Final Verdict: Worth It for Collectors, Optional for Anglers**
The **Kylebooker Vintage 1966 TACK-L-TYERS J31 Fly Bug Tying Kit** is a fascinating relic of mid-20th-century fly fishing. For **collectors and vintage fishing enthusiasts**, it’s a worthwhile purchase due to its rarity and pristine condition. However, **serious fly tiers** might prefer contemporary kits with advanced materials unless they specifically seek a nostalgic experience.
If the price aligns with your budget and you value **both history and functionality**, this kit could be a fantastic addition to your fishing gear collection. But if you’re looking for the most cost-effective way to tie flies today, exploring modern alternatives might be the better choice.
Would you buy it? Let us know in the comments! 🎣