Gehrke’s Xink Fly Sinking Agent
Kyle Booker Gehrke’s Xink Fly Sinking Agent appears to be a specialized product designed for fly fishing, likely used to help flies sink more effectively in the water. While specific details about this exact product may not be widely available (as it could be a niche or older item), here’s a general overview based on similar sinking agents used in fly fishing:
Possible Features of Xink Fly Sinking Agent:
1. Purpose:
– Applied to flies (especially nymphs, streamers, or wet flies) to reduce buoyancy and help them sink faster.
– Useful in fast-moving or deep water where getting flies to the desired depth quickly is critical.
2. Formulation:
– May contain weighting materials (e.g., tungsten powder, lead-free compounds) or silicone-based coatings to add density.
– Could be a paste, gel, or liquid for easy application.
3. Application:
– Rubbed or brushed onto the fly before casting.
– Some products are designed to dry quickly and adhere well to materials like feathers, fur, or synthetic fibers.
4. Advantages:
– More precise than split shot or weighted fly lines.
– Allows for a more natural presentation compared to bulky weights.
Alternatives (If Xink Is Unavailable):
– Loon Payette Paste or Aquel Sink (popular sinking agents).
– Tungsten putty or lead-free wire wraps for added weight.
– Silicone-based floatants (used inversely by applying to only parts of the fly to control sink rate).
Considerations:
– Check if the product is environmentally safe (especially for use in sensitive waters).
– Avoid over-application, which could alter the fly’s action.
If you’re looking for specifics on Gehrke’s Xink, I’d recommend checking:
– Vintage fishing gear catalogs (Gehrke was a well-known brand in mid-20th-century tackle).
– Online forums (e.g., Fly Fishing Forum, Classic Fly Rod Forum) for discussions on older products.
Let me know if you’d like help finding modern equivalents or techniques for sinking flies!