Choosing the Right Saltwater Fly Line
You already know that wind, water, species, and technique influence your fly fishing line choices. If you're on the hunt for saltwater species, those variables are all the more important.
Selecting the right taper for saltwater fly fishing
When selecting saltwater fly lines, casting power is essential when dealing with wind and waves. The line's thickness varies along its length which is a key component to being successful against these elements. Manufacturers refer to this distribution as "taper", and where the line is thickest, it carries the most weight and stiffness. How a line is tapered determines how the cast transfers momentum to the rod and loads it properly. It can help turn over a variety of saltwater flies.
Here are the basic specifications to consider when purchasing saltwater fly line:
- Weight-forward (WF) lines, also known as front-tapered fly lines, are by far the most widely-used and versatile fresh and saltwater fly lines. They complement modern fast-action graphite rods nicely. When the bulk of the line's weight is at the head of the line, the angler is able to "shoot" a line through wind and across distances while allowing for accurate positioning of the fly on or in the water. Weight-forward lines have a place on any lake or stream and are favorites of saltwater fly anglers covering inlets or crossing breakers.
- Double taper (DT) lines are the most traditional choice, especially for those who cast slower-action rods. Otherwise, they're a somewhat distant second choice to weight-forward fly lines. The middle section of a DT line holds the bulk of its density, stiffness, and weight, ensuring a more consistent line behavior ideal for finely-tuned presentations on smaller waterways.
- Triangle-taper (TT) lines are often considered a hybrid of DT and WF lines. The weight backs up to the spool, and the lighter shooting line performs best in windless conditions. If you're sharing your boat with buddies or crowded by cover on the bank, you'll execute beautiful and accurate roll casts but your overhead casts won't be as effective as with DT or WF lines.
Choose from the best at AvidMax
Salinity, marine conditions, and widely-varied water temperatures require high-quality, durable saltwater fly fishing lines. Your choice means the difference between landing a shiny Coho at the mouth of an Alaskan river, catching a lifetime tarpon in Florida, or hooking that gorgeous striper in the crashing surf of coastal Maryland. Find all the fly line you’ll need with AvidMax's wide selection quality products from Scientific Anglers, RIO, Orvis, and Cortland. Have questions about selecting the right saltwater fly line for your upcoming trip? Our experts are happy to help! Call us at 720-836-3619 or chat with us on our site.
