We demonstrate that sectoral coating by a hydrophobic fluoropolymer is an effective method for controlling flow separation and the turbulent wake behind a cylinder in high Reynolds number flows (Re = 2.2 × 105). Time-resolved particle image velocimetry measurements show that the shape of the wake and trajectory of large-scale vortex structures are inclined due to delayed flow separation on one side of the cylinder. Near-wall, high-resolution visualization reveals that this effect is related to micro-bubbles traveling along the coated surface. The properties of the coatings and bubble presence did not deteriorate, even after many hours of continuous facility operation.