The basics of fly lines:
- Fly Line Density - A fly line's density determines whether it floats, sinks, or partially sinks.
- Fly Line Taper - This term refers to adjustments made to the fly line itself to improve casting. The Weight-Forward Taper is the most common and multi-use fly line.
- Fly Line Weight - Fly line weight is the weight of the fly fishing line, measured in grains and usefully assigned a number ranging from 1 to 14. Determine what you will be fishing for before selecting the appropriate fly line weight. Then, make certain that the fly line weight you select is exactly the matched with the fly rod and fly reel weight you intend to use.
- Fly Line Colour - When topwater fishing, the colour of the fly line is unimportant. During the day, the fish can see the shadow of any fly line. As a result, choose a fly line that is easy to see, with orange, yellow, and red being the most common colours. Submerged fishing requires a deeper colour, with various colours of brown/black being the most popular and effective.
- Trout Fishing and Fly Line - A floating fly line is by far the most common and adaptable line for trout fishing. Put small shot weights on the leader if you're fishing submerged nymphs. The majority of trout fishing is done using a floating fly line.
- Fly Line Codes Explained - The codes on a fly line can be confusing. WF-4-F is an example of a typical fly line code. That is, the fly line has a Weight Forwards Taper, a Fly Line Weight of 4, and Floats. The first series of letters/numbers relates to the taper, the second series of letters/numbers refers to the fly line weight, and the third series of letters/numbers refers to the density of the fly line (whether it sinks or floats).
What should I consider when buying the best fly fishing line?
Fly lines, unlike many other fly fishing accessories, are not generally considered a "personal taste" item. Once you've figured out all the technical elements, this makes buying for fly lines a little easier.
Anglers should generally follow the list below when shopping for a fly line in order to buy the best fly line for their needs:
- Determine your target species (trout, salmon, or bass?)
- Determine the fly rod weight and fly reel weight if you already have a fly rod and reel. Then, only seek for fly lines with the same weight.
Fly Rod Weight = Fly Reel Weight = Fly Line Weight
- Choose whether you want a floating, semi sinking, or full sinking line.
- Determine the taper you want for the fly line. The weight-forward (WF) taper is the fly line of choice for most fly fishing. WF taper should be the first fly line that angler buys for trout fishing.
- Choose the colour of fly fishing line that will be easiest to see in a variety of daytime lighting circumstances.
Do I need a floating or sinking fly fishing line?
A floating line is all you'll need if you're fly fishing for trout in the river. If you plan on fishing in lakes and reservoirs, you should also have some sinking fly fishing lines or intermediate fly lines in your tackle selection. A sinking fly line allows you to lower your wet fly to greater depths than a floating line to reach the fish.
