Loon Outdoors Fishing

Frequently Asked Questions

• What type of floatant should I use for CDC and other delicate dry flies versus emergers or spinner patterns?

  Gels like Top Ride are formulated to be CDC-safe and work well on very delicate hackles because they restore buoyancy without matting feathers. Powders such as Loon Dust give pinpoint, fast reapplication for emergers and soft hackles, while dips like Fly Dip add sheen and lasting water repellency for spinner patterns or low-light situations. For long-lasting flotation on heavily fished dries, thicker pastes like Loon Aquel provide durable buoyancy and can be dabbed sparingly.
• How do I choose and apply Loon sinkers (for example, Tin Drops 8 Division) for different water depths and currents?

  Pick sinker sizes—BB, 2SSG, SSG, etc.—based on current and target depth: smaller sizes for slow, shallow pocket water and larger SSG/2SSG sizes for faster runs and deeper nymphing. Tin Drops-style, double-cut sinkers allow easy reuse and micro-adjustment without crushing, and the matte finish reduces glare and line slip. Place weight close to the fly for fast sinks or stagger a few inches back for more natural presentation depending on your rig and strike detection needs.
• When should I reach for Fly Dip or a shimmery dip versus brushing on Loon Dust or Top Ride?

  Use a shimmery dip like Fly Dip when you want added sheen and longer-lasting water repellency—great for low-light fishing or when flies get repeatedly soaked. Choose Loon Dust for quick, dry touch-ups that restore float with minimal handling, and Top Ride gel when treating CDC and other delicate feathers where you need a gentle, long-lasting coat. For heavily pressured water or prolonged float, a paste like Loon Aquel can be used sparingly to extend buoyancy.
• How does Loon Dust powder compare to Top Ride gel for treating dry flies?

  Loon Dust is a dry powder that adds fine surface texture and immediate buoyancy with minimal weight, making it ideal for fast touch-ups and emerger control. Top Ride gel is a viscous, CDC-safe formulation that soaks into delicate feathers for longer-lasting flotation without clumping, so it’s preferred when preserving fly profile is critical. Use Dust when you need speed and precision, and Top Ride when durability and feather integrity matter more.
• Which Loon Outdoors tools should I carry streamside and how do I choose them by skill level?

  A basic streamside kit should include durable nippers for line, a pair of forceps or Hitch Pin hemostats for hook removal, and a zinger or retractable clip to keep tools handy. Intermediate and advanced anglers might add specialty hemostats, fine-tip tweezers, knot-tying tools, and a compact hook file; choose stainless-steel construction for corrosion resistance and ergonomic handles for one-handed use. For beginners, favor a simplified, lightweight set focused on nipping and safe hook extraction to reduce gear fuss while learning.