Which Fly Line Should I Get for Trout?
If you've ever looked at a wall full of fly lines, you've probably wondered why there are so many options. Different brands, different tapers, different colors, floating, sinking, and prices that range from around $40 to well over $100.
For most trout fishing, you can ignore a lot of the marketing. Choosing the right fly line is actually pretty straightforward.
If you're looking for a solid all-around trout line, here are a few we recommend:
- RIO Gold – One of the most popular floating trout lines ever made. It casts dry flies, nymphs, and smaller streamers extremely well.
- Scientific Anglers Amplitude MPX – A favorite among anglers fishing faster action rods. It loads the rod a little easier and is a great all-around trout line.
- RIO Elite Sub-Surface Camolux – If you're throwing streamers or fishing deep in lakes, this is an excellent sinking line.
- Scientific Anglers AirCel – A dependable floating line that's perfect if you're just getting started or looking for a quality line without spending premium money.
If you're buying your first trout line, we'd recommend sticking with a floating line. It'll cover probably 90% of the trout fishing you'll do.
Why Are There So Many Fly Line Weights?
This is probably the question we hear the most.
The answer is simple: your fly line weight should match your rod weight.
Fishing a 5-weight rod?
Buy a 5-weight fly line.
Fishing a 4-weight rod?
Buy a 4-weight line.
That's really all there is to it.
As the number gets smaller, the setup is designed for smaller fish and lighter presentations. As the number gets bigger, you're moving into larger flies and larger fish.
Here's a general idea:
- 3-weight – Small streams and smaller trout
- 4-weight – Small to medium rivers
- 5-weight – The most versatile trout setup
- 6-weight – Bigger rivers, heavier nymph rigs, streamers
- 7-8 weight – Bass, pike, steelhead
- 9-12 weight – Saltwater species
A 5-weight outfit is still the best place to start for most trout anglers.
Does Fly Line Color Matter?
Not nearly as much as people think.
Some anglers like bright lines because they're easier to see while mending or tracking a drift. Others prefer olive or muted colors because they blend into the water a little better.
Both catch fish.
Pick a color you like and spend more time working on your presentation than worrying about the color of your fly line.
Why Do Some Fly Lines Cost Twice As Much?
More expensive fly lines usually cast a little smoother, shoot farther, last longer, and handle temperature changes better.
Will a beginner notice every difference?
Probably not.
If you're just getting into fly fishing, a quality mid-range line is going to serve you really well. Once you've spent more time on the water, you'll start to appreciate what the premium lines offer.
When Should I Fish a Floating Line?
For trout fishing, a floating line is going to be your everyday line.
Use one when you're fishing:
- Dry flies
- Nymphs under an indicator
- Small streamers
- Rivers and streams
- Most trout situations
If you only own one fly line, make it a floating line.
When Should I Use a Sinking Line?
Sinking lines are for getting flies down quickly.
They're most commonly used when:
- Fishing lakes
- Throwing streamers
- Targeting trout holding deep
- Fishing baitfish, leeches, or crayfish patterns
The RIO Elite Sub-Surface Camolux is a great option anytime you know the fish are feeding below the surface.
Fly Line Care
A fly line is one of the most overlooked pieces of gear, but taking care of it makes a big difference.
Cleaning it occasionally, stretching it before a day on the water, and storing it out of direct sunlight will help it cast better and last longer.
If you'd like to learn more, check out our video on fly line care: