Fly-fishing line is different from other types of line in that it must be heavy enough to cast well, but light enough that it can float to the proper depth. Fly-fishing line is standardized by the American Fishing Tackle Manufacturers Association, so you can find the best weight, line shape, density, length and color for your fishing needs. Matching your line to your rod and fishing conditions will give you the best results the next time you are on the lake or river.
Weight
All fly-fishing line is assigned a number between 1 and 15 to represent how strong the line is, with 1 being the lowest rating and 15 being the strongest. You can use 7 or less line weight when you are fishing for light fish like panfish and trout, but you will need to go heavier for fish such as bass and pike. According to authors Dave Whitlock and Nick Lyons in the "L. L. Bean Fly-Fishing Handbook," the majority of fly fishermen use a weight somewhere between 5 and 8. Manufacturers also rate rods and reels with the same system, so it is advisable to use the same line weight as the rating on your rod and reel.
Density
Line density determines how much your line sinks or floats in the water. Fly-fishing lines are rated as either floating, intermediate, sinking or a floating and sinking combination. Floating lines stay on the surface of the water and are useful for beginners and shallow areas. They are easy to control and keep your fly dry. Intermediate lines sink just below the surface and allow you to present in weeds or rough waters without dragging on the bottom. Sinking lines stay to the bottom of the water, making them ideal for deep areas or streams with a strong current. Floating and sinking combination lines have the first few feet of line sink while the remainder of the line floats to increase line control. Many fly fishermen have multiple spools of line in their tackle box so they can change, depending on the fishing conditions.
Taper
Fly lines come in different taper types, or shapes. The ones primarily used by fishermen are level, weight forward and double tapers. Level tapers have the same line shape and weight distribution throughout. They are primarily used by veteran fly fishermen because they are difficult to cast. Weight-forward tapers place the majority of the weight on the front 30 feet of line, making them easier to cast for beginners. Double-taper lines are heavier in the middle section of line, creating a smooth floating curve in the water.
Color
The color of your fly fishing line is mostly a personal choice, but it can affect how attracted fish are to your fly. If you are new to fly fishing, it is advisable to use a highly visible color like white or fluorescent so you can learn basic casting and presentation. As you become more experienced or begin to use sinking lines, colors like black and brown help hide the line from fish.
Member Comments