What To Look For
The fly line is the heart of the fly fishing ensemble. It is chosen first, before the rest of the equipment, based upon the species the angler chooses to fish. The fly line provides the weight that delivers the fly as accurately and delicately as possible to the fish. In fly fishing it is the line that is cast, not the terminal tackle as in spin- or bait-casting.
Fly lines are made in a range of different profiles, line weights, densities and colors for different types of fishing and for different flies. The AFTM (Association of Fishing Tackle Manufacturers) has established a guideline and codes for the description of these different types of fly lines. The profile may be Level (L), Double Taper (DT), Weight-Forward (WF) or Shooting-Head (SH). Level lines have uniform weight from tip to tip. They are now rarely used. Double tapers have a pronounced concentration of weight at both tips. When one tip wears out, the line can be reversed on the reel. Weight-forward lines and shooting-tapers position most of their weight at the tip for longer casts. These are more for the experienced angler who can perform a "double haul" maneuver to maximize casting distance. Line weights range from 1 weight (ultralight for stream trout) to 15 weight (ultra-heavy for saltwater game fish). Densities determine whether the fly line floats (F), sinks (S) or floats but has a sinking tip (ST). The spool that contains the fly line will have a printed code such as "DT6F," which means the line is a double taper, 6 weight, floating.
Common Pitfalls
Never try to use a given fly line on a rod for which it is not balanced. A 6-weight line requires a number 6 rod, which is designed to cast that weight of line, or perhaps one weight above or below. Matching line to rod is critical. Also, don't purchase a sinking (S) or sinking tip (ST) line to fish with dry flies, which are meant to float. The line will drag them underwater. Fly fishing, more than any other type of angling, demands that the components be balanced and precisely matched in order to work effectively. An excellent all-round line for most inland fishing on lakes and streams is the DT6F.
Where To Buy
Patronize your local fly shop if one is available. Otherwise, large outfitters will carry a variety of fly lines, as will some of the larger x-mart type stores. Fly lines can also be purchased from several Internet sources, both specialty sites and many general sales sites.
Cost
Scientific Anglers, Cortland, and Redington are the big manufacturers of fly lines.
It's possible to find specialized fly lines with prices approaching $100, but most on the low end are in the $20 to $30 range, while the better quality lines will run around $60 to $70. The lines themselves will last a long time if not abused.
Insider Tips
Floating lines tend to come in lighter colors like pale blue, white, light green or even orange--not to camouflage them from the fish, but to make them more visible for the fisherman. Sinking lines are nearly always in dark colors to blend with the background.
