Beyond these functions, the various features available with fly lines are designed to
meet specific fly fishing applications. For the most part, they are secondary
features that you consider after selecting the basics of line weight, line taper
and line buoyancy.
length . . . fly lines generally range in length from 70 to 100 feet, according to
the taper, line weight and usage for which the line is designed; as long as your reel spool capacity is compatible, unless you are
selecting a shooting head (of 30' to 38') fly line length is not a factor to plug into the
selection process
color. . . needs some definite
thought, which we cover under "Fly Line Color"
color
coding . . . if you want a line to visually "talk to you", by means of
usually bright, two-toned colors on the front
portion of the line, there are several styles to choose from
coating . . . the line coating's basic function is to provide the
appropriate amount of weight to load the rod to which it is matched; beyond that, you will
want to evaluate your needs as to your line's special casting properties which different
coatings affect.
end connector loops . . . many lines now come with connecting loops so
that you can easily change leaders (using an "interlocking loop" or
"handshake loop")
sink rate . . . if you are choosing a sinking line, based upon what you
will be using the line to fish for, you must determine at what depth those fish are
generally expected to be and match the sinking rate and fishing depth of the line; we
covered this information at "fly line sink rates"
density compensated . . . some sinking lines will have two different
rates of sink to promote a straighter line of descent (as discussed at "fly line sink rates")
strike indicator . . . some lines have a high contrast or brightly
colored segment(s) on the line to assist the angler with visual indication of a striking
fish (these are also available as an accessory/add on)
temperature control . . . a newer focus by line makers is to combat the
effects of extreme temperatures on fly line performance by building-in compensating
features that minimize expansion (caused by high heat) or contraction (from very cold
conditions)
A word about
"heads"
Many fly fishers use a series of fly line "heads" rather
than full-length lines. Such heads can be of varying lengths, weights and densities.
They are usually connected together by interlocking/handshake loops. You
might see them sold as "multi-tip" lines, or "mini-head" lines.
These heads might be 1' to 40' long.
Depending on their properties, they can be adapted to meet most fly fishing
situations. So whether floating, sinking or sinking tip lines are called for, heads
can be "looped" together without needing an entire, full length fly line.
And, there's no need to change reels, spools, etc.
We suggest that, for the beginning
flyfisherman/woman, that these systems, though certainly functional, should be considered
after the angler has had a considerable amount of experience with standard, full length
fly lines.
When your fly fishing needs have
expanded to where multiple fish, in a variety of locations & conditions, needing a
variety of tackle are confronted with regularity, it may then be the time to look at the
benefits of this approach.
