Fly Fishing Equipment: Choosing The Right Line

For folks just getting into the relaxing and enjoyable sport of fly fishing, assembling the proper gear can be one of the first exciting challenges to deal with. Depending on the type and size of fish you are going after and the waters you will be fishing, you will have to first select from many options for the various parts of your "kit". One of the core elements of your fly fishing setup will be your line though, so it is a good place to start. Let's take a look at your different line options and learn to match them with your needs.

Sinkers Or Floaters?

If you're just starting out, it's best to go with a full floating line. This type is commonly used for fishing the smaller sized still waters and river trout fishing. You can save the sinking lines until your skill level is at a point where you're willing to try larger bodies of water. With a sinking line, you'll be able to fish a variety of depths. Also, because they are thinner than floating lines, sinkers are also good if you have to fish in very windy conditions, as they cut through the air quite well.

Match The Climate

You'll also have to base your decision on the overall climate of the region and waters you'll be fishing. This is because you can also choose between cold weather and warm weather options for your lines. Make certain, especially if you are fishing in extreme climates, to choose the correct one or you'll find the line does not respond the way you'll need it to.

Line Weight

Once you've figured out the above, you can then move on to one of the easier parts of the process - choosing the correct line weight. Line weights are standardized throughout the fly fishing equipment industry, so once you've figured out which weight - often abbreviated "wt" - works in certain situations, you can be confident that the results will be nearly the same across all the major brands.

If you're into pan fishing and you're going after smaller fish in small, easy waters such as narrow brooks or streams, starting with the lighter weights is a good way to go. We're talking here about lines less than four-weight. As you move on to larger and darker waters though and start chasing after a larger catch your line weight should increase too. For example, the five to seven weight lines might be to your liking if you're after bass or larger trout and you'll want to go even higher once you start chasing down lunkers like muskie.

As you can see, choosing the right line depends on many factors. If you see yourself facing a variety of different waters and fish on your next fly fishing adventure, it would probably be best to bring an assortment of lines along. Along with the information here, you should be able to find an initial match to use and then further refine your choices as you gain more experience.