Top 5 UV Resin for Fly Tying in 2026 – Expert Picks
Whether you’re a seasoned fly tier or just getting started, finding the best UV resin for fly tying can make all the difference in creating durable, professional-looking flies. UV resin has revolutionized the craft by offering fast-curing, crystal-clear finishes that protect delicate materials and add strength to fly heads, bodies, and wing cases. Unlike traditional epoxies that require mixing, UV resins cure in seconds under a UV light—making them ideal for precision work on small patterns like surf candies, epoxy shrimp, and baitfish imitations. In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the top-performing UV resins specifically suited for fly tying, focusing on clarity, viscosity, cure time, and ease of use.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Uv Resin For Fly Tying Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Best UV Resin for Fly Tying – Thick, Fast-Curing, Clear Formula for Fly Heads and Bodies
This thick, fast-curing UV resin is specifically formulated for fly tying and delivers exceptional clarity and durability. Perfect for creating strong, glossy fly heads, bodies, and wing cases, it cures in seconds under UV light without yellowing over time. Eco-friendly and non-toxic, it’s safe to use and ideal for both beginners and pros.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Thick viscosity ideal for building up fly heads and baitfish bodies
- ✓ Cures in seconds under UV light—no mixing required
- ✓ Crystal-clear finish with excellent UV resistance
- ✓ Non-toxic and eco-friendly formula
- ✓ Great for surf candies, epoxy shrimp, and thread heads
Why We Recommend It
This resin stands out for its perfect balance of thickness and clarity, making it ideal for detailed fly patterns that need structural integrity. It doesn’t shrink or bubble, and the fast cure time means you can tie more flies in less time.
Best For
Fly tiers who want a reliable, high-performance resin for creating durable, professional-looking saltwater and freshwater patterns.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for building up thick coatings on fly heads
- No odor or harmful fumes
- Cures quickly and stays clear
- Easy to apply with precision
Cons:
- Requires a separate UV light (not included)
- Thick formula may be too heavy for delicate dry flies
Customer Reviews
“Works like it should, bigger uv light sets it faster than a smaller one.”
“Works like it should, bigger uv light sets it faster than a smaller one.Read more”
2. UV Resin and LED Light Combo for Fly Tying – Includes Thick, Thin, and Soft Glues
This all-in-one combo pack includes three different viscosities of UV resin—thick, thin, and soft—plus a durable UV LED flashlight, making it perfect for versatile fly tying applications. Whether you’re coating eyes, sealing thread wraps, or building up bodies, this kit has you covered.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Three resin types: thick for heads, thin for coating, soft for flexible finishes
- ✓ Includes high-quality UV LED flashlight with long battery life
- ✓ Fast curing—ready in seconds under the included light
- ✓ Great for securing dumbbell eyes and Pro Softheads
- ✓ Compact and portable for tying on the go
Why We Recommend It
The inclusion of multiple resin types in one kit makes this a standout choice for fly tiers who work on a variety of patterns. The UV light is bright and reliable, and the resins cure evenly without cloudiness.
Best For
Tiers who want versatility and convenience—especially those working on both hard-bodied and soft-profile flies.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Three resins cover all fly tying needs
- UV light is sturdy and effective
- Great value for the price
- Easy to use with consistent results
Cons:
- Soft resin may not be hard enough for some saltwater patterns
- Light requires AAA batteries (not included)
Customer Reviews
“It is easy to use and a good value for the money. I used similar products earlier successfully. I read many negative comments on this kind of products on Amazon, and I would say this kind of products is not a glue but is like a solder. Glue is used to afix two sides closely, but this product is n”
“This UV cement works great. The three different viscosities provide a wide range of uses. The UV flashlight is well made and should last a lifetime.”
3. Hard UV Resin for Jewelry Making – Crystal Clear, Fast-Curing Epoxy for Crafts
Originally designed for jewelry, this hard UV resin delivers professional-grade clarity and durability at a budget-friendly price. It cures rock-hard in minutes under UV light and resists yellowing, making it a great option for fly tiers looking for affordable quality.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Made with high-quality polyurethane acrylic resin
- ✓ Self-leveling and low-odor formula
- ✓ Cures crystal clear with minimal shrinkage
- ✓ Safe and non-toxic after curing
- ✓ Works with any UV light source
Why We Recommend It
Despite being marketed for jewelry, this resin performs exceptionally well in fly tying applications—especially for small, detailed patterns. It’s a fantastic budget alternative without sacrificing performance.
Best For
Beginners or budget-conscious tiers who want reliable UV resin for small flies, wing cases, and decorative coatings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable compared to fly-specific resins
- Cures hard and clear
- Low odor and easy to work with
- Great for adding sparkle or color with pigments
Cons:
- Not specifically formulated for fly tying
- May require multiple thin coats for thick applications
Customer Reviews
“I’ve been using this UV resin for a few craft projects lately and it’s honestly been pretty great. It cures really fast under my UV lamp, usually within a couple minutes, which makes it perfect for small pieces when I don’t want to wait around.The clarity is nice and it usually dries super clear and”
“Used this resin to create flower presses. I like the design of the bottle because it the nozzels can be removed for storage. The resin also comes out of the nozzle and easy to control. Works perfect with any UV light. Little smell, drys clear (I added sparkles) and durable for many small crafts.”
4. UV Cure Acrylic Resin Kit with Flashlight – Clear Coating for Jewelry and DIY Projects
This complete kit includes UV resin and a powerful flashlight, making it a great starter pack for fly tiers new to UV curing. The resin cures fast in sunlight or under UV light and remains super clear, perfect for coating flies and repairing gear.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cures in minutes with included UV flashlight or sunlight
- ✓ High-gloss, crystal-clear finish
- ✓ Can be tinted with mica powder or glitter
- ✓ Great for repairs, coatings, and small casts
- ✓ Easy-to-use squeeze bottle with precision tip
Why We Recommend It
The included flashlight is surprisingly effective, and the resin flows smoothly without bubbling. It’s a solid all-around performer for basic fly tying and DIY fixes.
Best For
New fly tiers or hobbyists who want a simple, ready-to-use UV resin kit without extra purchases.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes everything you need to get started
- Cures quickly and stays clear
- Versatile for crafts and fly repairs
- Sunlight-activated option adds convenience
Cons:
- Resin is thinner—may not be ideal for thick fly heads
- Flashlight is basic and may not last years of heavy use
Customer Reviews
“All I can say is wow! This stuff is amazing! I used this on a broken Christmas ornament and it’s literally like magic! You can barely tell where I made the repair. And the little uv flash light it comes with is adequate for this. This kit is worth every penny! I can’t wait to try this out on some ot”
“This resin cures quickly with the included UV light and remains clear. We used the resin to repair a broken stained glass window which gets plenty of sunlight … no yellowing. Be aware that the resin flows freely and will stop through cracks. Physical control is important.”
5. Fast-Curing UV Resin for Crafts – Crystal Clear, Sunlight-Activated Hard Epoxy Glue
This sunlight-activated UV resin cures in minutes without needing a lamp, making it perfect for outdoor fly tying or quick fixes. It’s non-toxic, low-odor, and delivers a hard, clear finish ideal for small flies and decorative details.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cures under sunlight or UV light—no lamp required
- ✓ Upgraded formula reduces stickiness and tack
- ✓ Resists yellowing and shrinkage
- ✓ Safe with certifications for non-toxicity
- ✓ Great for jewelry, crafts, and small fly accents
Why We Recommend It
The ability to cure in natural sunlight is a game-changer for anglers on the go. It’s also one of the clearest resins we’ve tested, with minimal odor during use.
Best For
Fly tiers who want convenience and clarity—especially for small patterns, wing cases, or emergency repairs on the water.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sunlight curing adds flexibility
- Extremely clear and durable
- Low odor and safe to use
- Good for adding color or glitter
Cons:
- Not ideal for thick applications
- Sunlight curing depends on weather conditions
Customer Reviews
“If I could give it more stars I would.When I went shopping for another bottle of UV resin, the one that I always use was out of stock so I tried this one begrudgingly.It works better than the old one!!! I had some of the old one left and I’m covering a 2 inch wide space. It’s taking 7 to 8 minutes u”
“This UV resin cures quickly and comes out impressively clear, making it great for jewelry pieces and small DIY projects.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best UV Resin for Fly Tying
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best UV resin for fly tying, we focus on four key factors: viscosity, cure time, clarity, and ease of use. Thick resins are ideal for building up fly heads and baitfish bodies, while thinner formulas work better for coating and sealing. Fast cure times (under 60 seconds) improve efficiency, and crystal-clear finishes ensure your flies look natural in the water. Always check if a UV light is included or needed separately.
Budget Planning
UV resin prices range from under $10 to over $30, depending on brand and kit inclusions. Budget options like the Hard UV Resin for Jewelry offer great value, while combo kits with lights provide convenience at a slightly higher cost. Consider your tying frequency and pattern complexity when investing.
Final Thoughts
The right UV resin can elevate your fly tying from good to exceptional. Whether you need thick coatings for saltwater flies or quick fixes for dry flies, there’s a product on this list that fits your needs. Prioritize clarity, cure speed, and viscosity to match your tying style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use UV resin without a UV light?
A: Some resins, like the Fast-Curing Sunlight-Activated formula, can cure under direct sunlight. However, for consistent and fast results, a UV lamp is recommended—especially for thick or shaded areas.
Q: Is UV resin safe for fishing flies?
A: Yes, as long as it’s labeled non-toxic and fully cured. All resins listed here are safe once hardened and won’t harm fish or waterways.
Q: How long does UV resin take to cure?
A: Most cure in 30–60 seconds under a strong UV light. Thicker applications may need multiple layers with curing in between.
Q: Can I color UV resin for fly tying?
A: Absolutely! Add a pinch of mica powder, alcohol ink, or pigment dispersion to create custom colors for bodies, wings, or accents.
Q: What’s the difference between thick and thin UV resin?
A: Thick resin holds its shape for building up heads and bodies, while thin resin flows into cracks and coats surfaces smoothly—ideal for sealing thread wraps or adding gloss.
Ready to take your fly tying to the next level? Choose one of our top-rated UV resins and start creating flies that are as tough as they are beautiful. Click any “Check Price” button above to find the best deal on Amazon and upgrade your tying kit today!
