Hi everyone,
as part of a university project, we developed fluorescent fly fishing lures. The concept is based on strongly UV-reactive materials (fluorescence – not classic phosphorescent afterglow) that are “activated” under UV light. (example pictures attached)
To support this, we designed a compact UV charging box (UV LEDs, defined exposure time, enclosed interior) that allows the flies to be irradiated before fishing or reactivated during a session.
Technical approach:
- UV LED array
- short activation time (< 1 minute)
- as homogeneous irradiation as possible inside the enclosure
- battery-powered / portable
Our questions:
- Does anyone have practical experience with fluorescent flies or UV-reactive tying materials?
- Under real fishing conditions (murky water, dusk, greater depth), does fluorescence provide noticeable advantages?
- Is a separate UV “charging box” for flies something already known in the fly fishing community, or would this be considered relatively new?
We are mainly interested in the practical relevance compared to traditional, natural patterns.
We would appreciate any insights, field experience, or critical opinions.
Posted by _migi_k