How to choose a fly fishing line

The most important element of fly fishing tackle is the cord. Beginning anglers often experience some difficulty in finding the right model. The recommendations of experienced fly fishers will help to solve the problem of choice.

The fly line differs significantly from the usual fishing line or braided line. The task of this element of a fly fishing rod is to deliver the lightest baits to a certain distance and dive to a given horizon. In fact, the cord replaces not only the traditional fishing line, but also a sinker with a float. When, when casting the rig, it stretches into a straight line, it becomes an extension of the rod. Due to the special characteristics of the line, the fisherman can perform exclusive types of postings that are impossible in other fishing methods. However, the fly line is not so easy to choose for a beginner. There are many different modifications and designations, which makes you immediately want to grab your head. Nevertheless, if some theoretical knowledge is supplemented with the advice of experienced fly fishers, then the choice will not be so difficult.

Basic parameters of fly lines
 

Some beginners limit their knowledge of cords to the use of floating models. However, gradually there is a need for a deeper dive into the theory. Then you have to get acquainted with such characteristics of fly fishing lines as:

    - the weight;
    - the form;
    - density.

Fly line weight or AFTMA class

 In a well-tuned fly fishing rod, all elements must be combined with each other. Only then will the fly fly accurately and far. To classify cords by weight, a special AFTMA system was invented. In it, all products are divided into classes, starting from 0 (super-light models) and ending with 15 (super-heavy marine cords). The first 30 feet or 9.14 m became the basis of this technique. Depending on the mass of this segment, the cord belongs to one class or another. The AFTMA classification has greatly facilitated the process of selecting the line to the rod. Many manufacturers put on the form such a marking that complies with the AFTMA system. For example, if class 6 is indicated on the rod, then the rod must be equipped with a cord with the same digital designation. The choice of line is also influenced by the size of the bait used. The lighter and smaller the fly, the smaller the line should be. It is sometimes necessary to break this rule, given the density and purity of the water, the weather and the type of fish. So it’s more logical to buy a line first, and then choose a rod for it.


    - To catch small fish with small lures, it is best to use models of 2-3 classes. The casting length will be within 12 m. For this category of lines, flies with hooks No. 16-22 according to the Redditch nomenclature are best suited. Tackle is completed with undergrowth and leashes 5x-8x. However, in strong winds, it will be quite problematic to control such a fishing rod.
    - Heavier cords (grade 4-5) allow you to use a wider range of lures for fishing. These range from large flies (10-22) to medium sized streamers (#4 and smaller). Leashes and undergrowths are selected with the designation 3x-7x. In addition, the tackle becomes obedient in windy weather. The casting distance of this type of line is 15 m.
    - Large flies and streamers, even in windy weather, can be thrown up to 20 m if a class 6 or 7 cord is wound on the reel. They pair well with 0x-5x undergrowth.
    - Fishing for salmon or sea trout should be done with lines of class 8-9. They allow you to cast over a distance of more than 25 m. The equipment is not afraid of gusts of strong wind. The size of the flies for such lines is 3-4, and the line for leaders requires 2x and above.


Fly line shape

    - Cylindrical models have the same thickness along the entire length. They are indicated by the letter L (Level), they are characterized by low cost. However, such a line is not suitable for all conditions of fishing.
    - The torpedo-shaped cord has a weighted front part, which is also reflected in the designation WF (Weight Forward). The main section is thin and light for long casting advantage.
    - The double tapered cord has a flat center section and a gradual tapering towards the end. The model is designated DT (Double Taper). The cone shape is most suitable for making ring casts and gently feeding the bait to the point of fishing.

Based on these three groups, many special modifications have been created. They can be interested in acquiring certain fishing skills.

Fly line density

The fly line allows you not only to cast the bait at a certain distance, but also to immerse the fly to a predetermined depth. That is why the angler has to pay attention to density. According to this parameter, all cords are divided into:

    - floating F (Floating);
    - completely sinking S (Sinking);
    - floating models with a sinking end F/S (Floating/Sinking).

    1. Floating models have a flexible plastic shell with an air chamber inside (Air Cel). Thanks to this structure cord is constantly kept on the water surface. Floating products come in all classes, in a variety of shapes and colors.
    2. The purpose of sinking cords is to lower the bait to a depth. Ballast substances are introduced into the shell of these models, which are most often lead and tungsten. By adjusting their concentration in the cord, fast or slow immersion can be achieved. That's why there is a division into types from I to VI. For example, cord I has a sinking speed of 0.03-0.04 m / s, it is denoted by the term Slow. But the V type is called Super Fast, in 1 second it goes deep by 0.14-0.15 m. Choose a fly line
    3. When using sinking fly lines, certain difficulties arise. A completely drowned cord 15-20 m long is quite problematic to control. And it takes a long time to get it out of the water. The solution to this issue was the use of floating cords with a sinking end. One of the main characteristics of such models is the sinking speed of their end, which ranges from 0.03 to 0.16 m/s.


Recommendations from professionals

And now, when all the indicators of the lines are mixed in the head of a novice angler, you can use the advice of fly fishing masters. Based on their experience and previous mistakes, they recommend simplifying the choice as follows.

    - Firstly, a beginner fly fisherman needs a floating line. All other modifications may be needed later. With a floating model, it is easier to master the technique of casting. In addition, this modification of the cords eliminates the possibility of rod breakage due to incorrect actions.
    - Secondly, the line must exactly match the class of the rod. It is best to first determine the weight of the line (taking into account the conditions of fishing and the size of the lures), and only then purchase a fly stick and reel. When two classes are indicated on the rod blank, for example 5/6, then the line is selected according to the lower value. In this case, model number 5 is required.
    - And finally, it is necessary to purchase the first cord taking into account your financial capabilities. In the line of well-known manufacturers of fly fishing lines, there are also budget products. They will be the best option for beginners. As an example, you can specify products from the USA SCIENTIFIC ANGLERS Air Cel or STRIKE Fly Line.

A responsible approach to the choice of fly line will certainly affect the catches of a novice fisherman. Thanks to a balanced rod, you will be able to quickly master various types of casts, naturally cast the bait, and make adjustments to the gear. In the future, there will be additional requirements for fly fishing gear, including the line.

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