Best tarp/fly under $100?

[Caveman]

My vote is for the tadpole also. Great tarp and awesome customer service.

[Tendertoe]

My suggestion would be to go for something larger than the Tadpole IMHO.

For someone just starting out, the larger the tarp the less fiddle factor needed to stay dry.

Chinook tarps - $47 for the 12 x 9.6 or $67 for the 14 x 12.

Heavier and bulkier than the Tadpole, but either of the Chinook sizes offer more coverage for cheaper.

My .02

[mikethebeard]

+1on the tadpole great tarp and clean looking

[chorpie]

My first and only tarp is the kelty noah's 12x12. I think I got it for $60. It's not the lightest, but your friend being a new hanger, its benefit is its size since you don't quite know where to put things when you're starting out.

Plus, if you're taking it hunting you'll have that much extra coverage for your gear which is nice.

[Brimstone]

I picked up a very nice Hennessy Hex from Dan's Depot for around $59.