French Plus fly patterns
Specially aligned hackle fibres on French Plus dry flies provide excellent buoyancy
French Plus dry flies stand out thanks to a special tying technique that clearly differs from traditional dry fly patterns. The rear hackle fibers are angled slightly forward, while the front fibers point backwards, creating a dense and highly stable hackle collar. This construction traps significantly more air than conventional tying styles and therefore provides outstanding buoyancy. French Plus flies float exceptionally well, even in faster currents, while also remaining highly visible on the water. If you are looking for realistic dry flies with excellent floating performance, French Plus patterns are an outstanding choice.
FRENCH PLUS – DRY FLIES WITH OUTSTANDING BUOYANCY
French Plus dry flies rank among the most innovative developments in modern dry fly design. Their defining feature is a unique hackling technique in which the fibres are angled in opposite directions so they interlock, creating an exceptionally dense hackle collar. Despite the delicate materials, this produces a remarkably stable structure that traps a large volume of air. The result is a highly buoyant dry fly that stays confidently on the surface, even in fast currents, while maintaining its characteristic lifelike posture.
The floating ability of a dry fly depends largely on how much air is retained within the hackle and the surrounding tying materials. The denser and more compact the hackle collar, the greater the buoyancy—unlike loosely tied patterns, which absorb water more quickly and begin to sink. Thanks to this construction, French Plus flies sit securely in the surface film, maintaining their floating profile even in demanding currents.
French Plus flies excel not only because of their outstanding buoyancy but also thanks to their exceptional visibility. The dense hackle collar creates strong contrast on the water, allowing you to keep track of your fly even in difficult light or slightly coloured water. If you're looking for a dry fly that combines long-lasting flotation with a highly realistic appearance, French Plus patterns are an outstanding choice.
These flies truly come into their own wherever conventional dry flies tend to sink too quickly—whether over shallow gravel beds, in faster runs or along turbulent current seams. They are equally effective in slower water, where their stable, airy profile remains on the surface for longer and frequently persuades even cautious fish into taking with hesitant rises.
Our range of French Plus dry flies includes a wide selection of sizes, colour combinations and hook styles. Whether you prefer an understated presentation or a pattern that's easy to follow on the water, you'll always find the right option for the conditions. With French Plus patterns, you'll add dry flies to your box that float reliably, inspire confidence and create unforgettable dry fly experiences.