由 Jake Heiman The Loon Outdoors Top Ride is a popular floatant and desiccant combo designed specifically for fly fishing dry flies. Here’s a breakdown of its features and how to use it effectively:
Key Features:
1. Dual-Action Formula – Acts as both a floatant (to keep flies riding high) and a desiccant (to dry waterlogged flies).
2. Fast-Acting – Quickly restores buoyancy to flies without leaving residue.
3. Non-Toxic & Eco-Friendly – Safe for fish and the environment.
4. Easy Application – Comes in a shaker bottle for convenient use on the water.
5. Works on All Dry Flies – Effective for natural and synthetic materials (e.g., CDC, hackle, poly wings).
How to Use:
1. Pre-Treating Flies:
– Before fishing, shake a small amount of Top Ride onto your dry fly.
– Gently blow off excess powder—this helps the fly float better from the first cast.
2. Reviving Waterlogged Flies:
– If your fly gets soaked, dry it by shaking off excess water.
– Apply Top Ride, then gently shake or blow off the powder to restore buoyancy.
3. Combining with Liquid Floatants:
– Some anglers pre-treat flies with a liquid floatant (like Loon Aquel) and then use Top Ride as a refresher.
Pros:
✔ Lightweight & easy to carry
✔ Doesn’t gum up flies like some pastes
✔ Works well in humid or rainy conditions
Cons:
✖ Can be messy in windy conditions
✖ Not a substitute for a good false cast to dry flies
Best For:
– Delicate dry fly presentations (e.g., mayflies, caddis, midges)
– Long fishing sessions where flies need frequent reconditioning
Alternatives:
– Shake Powders: Frog’s Fanny, Flyagra
– Liquid Floatants: Loon Aquel, Gink
Final Verdict:
Top Ride is a reliable choice for keeping dry flies floating high, especially when combined with a liquid floatant. It’s a must-have for dry fly purists who need quick fly revival on the water.
Would you like tips on specific fly types or techniques for using it?