Understanding Fly Fishing Lines

The single most important thing to consider isfor windy conditions or long distance casting but
that the fly line must match the weight on thean excellent choice for roll casting. A double taper
rod it is to be used on. Due to the manyline can be reversed, making this an economical
manufactures and wide range of fishing conditionschoice as you can use both ends.
there is an almost endless selection of tapers andShooting Tapers — These lines while they
variations. Fly lines basically come in level, double,are great for making very long casts, lack the
weight forward and shooting tapers. I am suredelicacy needed for general all-around fly fishing.
everyone has their opinion on this matter, as toThe line, due to the weight in the front of the line,
what is the best overall line. You will have tocan spook the fish when it hits the water. This line
decide which taper is best suitable for your fishingis harder to control for a beginner. Also since the
conditions. Fly lines come in ether a floating orback end of the fly line is thinner than standard
sinking or a combination of the two.fly line, it has a wicked tendency to coil and get
Weight Forward -This is by far the most popularknotted up. For beginner anglers, a shooting taper
line and used by most people that I go fishingfly line is not recommended. A shooting taper fly
with. As the name suggest the weight is in theline works well to make very long distance casts
forward section of the line. The weight of the lineand fish in windy conditions.
is usually measured in the first 30 feet. GenerallyLevel Taper — A level taper fly line has
this line will permit longer casting distances. Thisabsolutely no taper and is of uniform weight and
taper is an excellent choice for windy conditionswidth for its total length. While theses lines float
or long distance casting. If you are fishing in tightextremely well they are the most difficult to cast
casting situations be aware that this line is hard toand handle. Beginner anglers should stay away for
roll cast.this taper of line.
Double Taper - These lines have a 6 foot to 10The best overall fly line for a beginner would be
foot tapered section at each end of the fly linethe weight forward, as you gain experience you
and have a long level section in the middle of thecan try the different tapers and see what feels
line. This line will give you a more delicatebest to you.
presentation of your fly. Not a very good choice