What's the Best Fly Line for a Fiberglass Fly Rod?
We spoke with experts, Simon Gawesworth, a master of the cast, and Tim Rajeff, an expert in fly rod design and manufacturing, to help us understand how to choose fly line for a fiberglass fly rod.
What’s the difference between old glass vs. new glass rods?
To begin Simon states, "If you only have one rod, you still are going to need a variety of fly lines (to cast for a variety) of variables." -variables such as; if you cast with a fast stroke or a slow stroke, or if you are fishing a stream with a short amount of line, or on a reservoir. He adds, "Once you start to dial it in, there are certain things that are essential in a fly line and fly rod combination."
1.) You don’t want to overload the rod with a fly line.
The first essential thing when choosing a fly line for a fiberglass fly rod, is to not overload the rod. Fiberglass rods are slower, and you don’t want to overload them with lines that are made heavier. Simon puts it this way, "Look for (line) that is lighter than the (half or full size) heavy lines -something that is built to industry standards so, you can have a bit more length out when you need to, without overloading it."
When Simon mentions "built to industry standards," he is talking about choosing line that matches AFTM grain standards. AFTM stands or the American Fishing Tackle Manufacturers Association. In truth, some lines are not built to industry standards. This is because the line is really meant to load the fast action rods of today, which fiberglass rods are not. Therefore, when buying line for your fiberglass rod, make sure it is AFTM rated.
Looking for the right fly line? Check out our selection here.
2.) Go with a short front taper.
Next, the second essential thing when choosing line for fly rods with slow action, is to choose line with a short front taper. Tim explains, "I recommend that people choose a line that’s got either a little shorter front taper, or a little thicker tip diameter -so, that there is still enough energy left when that line is rolling through the air to straighten out your leader."
He continues, "In general, you’d want a fly line that is not overly thin or hyper-presentationed." When Tim mentions hyper-presentationed what he means is, "A little aggressive front taper (shorter front taper) and one that finishes a little thicker at the tip." Typically, when using fiberglass rods, you’ll be making short distance casts. If the front taper is too long, then there will not be enough weight in the line to load the rod. Therefore, choose a short front taper.
In the end, when choosing fly line for your fiberglass fly rod remember the essentials; don’t overload the rod, and choose a short front taper. Still have questions? Our helpful N40 Fly Shop crew will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.