Fly Fishing Lines

Fly fishing lines are a type of specialized fishing line that supplies the weight/mass needed to cast fishing flies with fly rods. The first fly fishing lines were originally created from woven horsehair that then evolved into woven silk fiber lines. More modern synthetic materials have gradually replaced natural materials in the construction of fly fishing lines. Today’s fly fishing lines are typically around 90 feet (27m) long although longer fly lines are sometimes manufactured. Fly fishing lines have several characteristics which can be used to describe any given fly line. Some of these characteristics are based on industry standards while others can often vary considerably between each of the different manufacturers. Things to consider when looking at fly fishing lines are:

Taper

Taper outlines the change in width of fly fishing lines from end to tip. Taper is significant in the casting performance of each fly fishing line particularly in the presentation of various fishing flies from the very delicate to the heavy and wind resistant in a range of on-water conditions. Fly fishing lines are often said to be either; weight forward taper, double taper, level or shooting heads.

Weight

The weight of fly fishing lines is an industry standard measure of the actual weight in grains of the first 30 feet (9.1 m) or 9.1 meters of fly fishing line. Weights of fly fishing lines can vary from 1 weight to 15 weight and are designed to match up to the relevant fly rod. However some anglers may prefer to over-line or under-line any given rod depending on their casting style and fly rod action.

Buoyancy

Generally typical fly fishing lines have a buoyancy characteristic that details how the line behaves when on the water after it has been cast. Floating and sinking fly fishing lines are designed to do just that, float or sink, however there are a range of fly fishing lines called ‘sink tip’ which only partially submerge.

Fly line manufacturers design their fly fishing lines with many other characteristics as well. At John Norris there is a wide range of fly fishing lines whatever your angling experience. Take a look at the selection of fly fishing line products or give John Norris a call to discuss your requirements.