I've used Sharpies for years.

I found a set a while back with more 'natural' colors in it. It contained several nice shades of yellows, browns, and greens (including olive). If you keep an eye out at the office supply type places, sometimes you can get great deals on Sharpies. I also like the 'Bic' brand of markers, and they alos come in wide array of useful colors.

As far as longevity goes, I've not had an issue with that. Usually the fish tear up the flies long before the color could wear off (or, more truthfully, I lose them to snags or casting errors). I've had foam hoppers and bass poppers that have lasted for a couple of years with no degradation of the colors.

Good Luck Jim!

Buddy

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