Orvis Hy-Flote Gel review

What is Orvis Hy-Flote Gel?

Orvis Hy-Flote Gel is a clear silicone gel that you apply to dry flies to make them repel water and keep them floating upon, or rather within, the surface layer of the water. While not suitable for every kind of dry fly, silicone gel floatants like Hy-Flote Gel are widely used, easy to apply and very effective.

How do you use this dry fly floatant?

Like other silicone-based gel dry fly floatants, Orvis Hy-Flote Gel is applied sparingly by rubbing it in to the fibres of the dry fly. Simply open the top, squeeze out a very small amount of the gel and then rub it between your thumb and forefinger and then work it into the body and fibres of the fly, aiming to avoid clogging them.

How well does it work?

Hy-Flote Gel works well. When applied carefully it will help keep most dry fly patterns floating in the surface layer for quite a while. As you can easily work it into specific parts of the fly, it's also useful for controlling the way the dry fly sits within the surface film which gives you a natural presentation. As with similar gels, it's worth keeping it out of direct sunlight as this can cause it to become thinner and there's a risk of it leaking and staining fabrics.

How much does it cost?

Stylishly packaged, Orvis Hy-Flote Gel costs around £5.99 a bottle, which is very good value for money. A little goes a long way, so a single container should easily last you a season or two.