As a fly angler, you know that the type of line you use makes all the difference in your success. You also know that there are many different types of fly fishing lines to choose from. So, what is the best fly fishing line for trout?
To answer this question, we need to consider a few factors. First, let’s look at the different types of fly fishing lines. Then, we’ll discuss what to look for in a good trout fly fishing line. Next, we’ll share our top picks for the best fly fishing line for trout. After that, we will discuss a few of the best ways to care for your fishing line and some tips about effectively using your line to catch more trout.
Four Different Fly Lines
There are four main types of fly fishing lines: floating, sinking tip, Fast sinking, and intermediate sinking. Now we will explain each of the fly fishing lines are how they are used.
Floating lines
A floating line is a type of fishing line that is designed to float on the surface of the water. This type of line is often used when fishing for trout or other types of fish that inhabit bodies of water with a moderate to slow current. This type of line is most often used when fishing with dry flies.
The floating line helps to keep the bait or lure in the desired location while also making it easier for the trout angler to detect any strikes from the fish. Additionally, the floating line is less likely to become tangled or snarled in underwater obstructions.
Sinking Tip Fly Line
Sinking tip fly fishing line is a fly line that has a sinking section of line that is attached to the fly line. The sinking section of the line helps to get the fly down to the fish faster. Sinking tip line is used when fishing in deeper water where the fish are located. This type of line works better for wet flies or nymphs.
Intermediate Sink Fly Line
An Intermediate Sink Fly Line sinks at a rate that is in between a fast sink and a slow sink fly line. This line allows the line to sink at an even rate. It is perfect for fishing in streams with a moderate current, as it will help you get your flies down to the fish quickly without having them drag along the bottom.
Fast Sinking Fly Line
A fast sinking fly line is designed to quickly get your fly down to where the fish are. It is made of a denser material than a regular fly line, which allows it to sink more quickly. This type of line is ideal for fishing in deep water, where you need to get your fly down to the bottom as quickly as possible.
So, which type of line should you use for trout? The answer is that it depends on the type of fly you’re using and the depth of water you’re fishing in. If you’re using a dry fly, a floating line is usually best. If you’re using a wet fly or nymph, a sinking line may be better. If you are fishing for trout that are in deep water you would want to opt for the fast sinking fly line and if you are fishing a stream that has a moderate current you would want to use an intermediate fly line.
What to Look for in a Good Trout Fly Fishing Line
There are a few different things that you will want to consider when purchasing fly fishing line and they are as follows:
Weight
One of the most important things to consider is the weight of the line. The weight of the line will determine how well it casts and how deep it sinks. Generally, a heavier line is better for nymphs and wet flies, while a lighter line is better for dry flies.
What Are The Different Weights of Fly Fishing Lines?
There are different weights of fly fishing lines, which are determined by the size of the fish you are trying to catch. The heavier line is used for larger fish, while the lighter line is for smaller fish. Some standard weights of fly fishing lines are 0 weight, 2 weight, 3 weight, 4 weight, 5 weight, 6 weight, 7 weight, and 8 weight.
Taper
Another thing to consider is the taper of the line. The taper is how the diameter of the line changes from one end to the other. A good fly fishing line will have a gradual taper that makes it easy to cast and gives you more control over your presentation. There are four different types of taper in fly fishing lines.
Level Taper
A level taper fly line is designed to maintain its thickness and casting characteristics from beginning to end. This allows for a smooth, effortless cast and helps to avoid the line tiring the caster out as it flows through the air. The level taper line is also less likely to get snagged on obstacles in the water like you would find in shallow water.
Shooting Head Line
The Shooting Head Line taper is a fly fishing line that casts large flies with heavy weights. It has a gradual taper from the thick butt section to the thin tip, which allows for a longer running line and greater accuracy.
The shooting head line is often used in saltwater fly fishing for larger fish such as tuna and Marlin.
Weight Forward Line
The Weight Forward Line is used to help cast a fly line out further. The weight in the front of the line makes it easier to get it out there, and the taper ensures it does not sink too quickly. This can be an important feature when fooling a fish with a dry fly.
Fly anglers typically fish in deeper waters will appreciate an excellent weight-forward line.
Double Taper Line
A double fly line taper is a fly fishing line designed to provide a smooth and gradual transition from the thickest section of the line to the thinnest.
This design helps create a more natural presentation when casting and improves the overall feel and handling of the line. Experienced anglers often use double taper lines to make more delicate presentations with smaller flies.
Material
Finally, you’ll also want to consider the material the line is made from. The most common materials are nylon and fluorocarbon. In the following, we will explain both types of material.
Nylon
Nylon fly fishing line is made up of small diameter filaments heat set and then coated with plastic. The line is strong, abrasion resistant, and has good knot strength. It can be used in salt and fresh water and in different colors. Beginners often use nylon fly fishing line because it is easy to cast and relatively affordable.
Fluorocarbon
Fluorocarbon fly fishing line is made of a material designed to be invisible in the water. This makes it a popular choice for trout anglers looking to approach their catch stealthily.
Fluorocarbon line also has a higher density than other types of fishing line, which helps them to sink quickly and smoothly through the water.
The Fluorocarbon line costs more than the Nylon line, but it’s a great choice to keep the trout from seeing the line and getting spooked.
Now that we’ve determined what to look for in good trout fly lines let’s share our top picks for the best fly fishing lines for trout.
15 Best Fly Fishing Lines for Trout
Here are our top picks for the best fly line for trout. Remember, there is no right fly line; it depends on several factors, including where you are fishing and how fast or deep the water is. You also need to consider the fish type and size you plan to catch.
Having these fishing lines as part of your fishing gear will up your chances of catching trout in just about any situation.
1. Orvis Hydros Trout WF Floating Fly Line
This line is designed specifically for trout fishing and is made from high-quality nylon material. The Orvis Hydros Trout WF Floating Fly Line is perfect for anglers who demand the best weight-forward lines.
This fly line is also one of the best-floating fly lines on the market today. The line is built with a unique taper that delivers a smooth, accurate cast every time. It also features a powerful head that can handle big fish and windy conditions.
2. Scientific Anglers Amplitude Smooth Infinity
This line is made from a fluorocarbon material that is very durable and invisible in the water. Amplitude Smooth Infinity Fly Line is a line that is designed to help anglers cast long distances and more accurately.
It features a long back taper that helps the line start turning over sooner, which results in longer casts. The line also has a sleek, smooth slickness additive coating that helps it easily slide through the air and across the water.
3. Rio InTouch Gold Fly Line
The Rio InTouch Gold has a weight-forward taper that makes it easy to cast and a smooth, gradual taper that gives you great control over your presentation.
This line has long been a favorite of anglers who demand the utmost performance. The InTouch Gold is built on a supple core for the utmost feel and is finished with a Teflon coating that ensures smoothness and durability.
4. Orvis Clearwater WF Floating Fly Line
The Orvis Clearwater WF Floating Fly Line is perfect for anglers who want a line that provides an enjoyable casting experience. The line is designed to deliver long, accurate casts and features a strong core that ensures durability. Plus, the floating design makes it easy to control your fly while you’re fishing.
This line is made from a high-quality nylon material visible in the water.
5. Scientific Anglers Frequency Trout Double Taper
The Scientific Anglers Frequency Trout Double Taper fly line is perfect for trout fishing. This line has a medium-stiff power core and a double taper design that makes it perfect for casting in tight quarters, as you find in small streams. It also has low memory, so it won’t kink or curl up on you.
You will also appreciate the welded loops that make setting this fly line a breeze. This float type of line also works great for fishing those dry flies. The Trout Double Taper is priced right at under $50, a no-brainer in my book!
6. RIO FIPS Euro Nymph Line
The RIO FIPS Euro Nymph Line is perfect for nymphing on smaller streams. The line is ultra-slim and easily lets you get your nymphs in the right spot. The line is also coated with a fish-friendly coating that ensures your line lasts for many seasons to come.
The tip is easy to see, so you are ready for any small movements with the tip when the trout start to strike. And it’s also competition legal, so you can use it if you fish in any tournaments.
7. RIO Products InTouch Trout Spey Shooting Head
The RIO Products InTouch Trout Spey Shooting Head is perfect for anglers who want to experience the benefits of Spey casting with a shorter, more manageable head.
This shooting head is built with a weight-forward taper that efficiently delivers flies to targets downstream, and the integrated SlickShooter coating ensures smooth and accurate casts.
8. Cortland 444 Classic Double Taper
The Cortland 444 Classic Double Taper is an excellent fly-fishing line for experienced anglers. It features a medium-fast action that makes it easy to control and casts accurately.
The line also has a long front taper that helps you easily control your fly and provides a smooth, drag-free presentation. Plus, the double taper design ensures a consistent performance from start to finish.
9. OPST Commando Smooth Integrated Skagit Shooting Head
The OPST Commando Smooth Integrated Skagit Shooting Head is perfect for anglers looking for a smooth and efficient way to cast large flies and heavy lines.
The integrated design ensures that the head and line are perfectly matched, resulting in longer and more accurate casts. The Commando Smooth also features a soft-tip design that gently lands your flies, while the stiff butt section ensures that your line stays in the air longer.
10. RIO Products Elite Gold
The RIO Products Elite Gold fly fishing line is the perfect option for anglers who demand the best in terms of performance and quality.
Featuring a hard, icy coating and a supple core, this line delivers incredible performance and sensitivity, allowing you to feel every nibble and strike. The Elite Gold line can handle even the most challenging conditions with its high-strength core and superior abrasion resistance.
11. Cortland Euro Nymph Mono Core
The Cortland Euro Nymph Mono Core is a great fly line for nymphing on the river. It has a sinking tip that gets your flies down to the fish quickly, and the mono core gives you sensitive feedback so you can feel every nibble. This line is also easy to cast, and it’s built to last.
It is also easy to see because it’s Gecko green! At under $60, you can’t go wrong with this premium trout fly fishing line!
12. Orvis Clearwater Sinking Line
The Orvis Clearwater Sinking Line is the perfect tool for anglers targeting trout and other fish that inhabit deep, fast-flowing water. This line has a sinking rate of six inches per second, which is ideal for casting in heavy currents.
The Clearwater Sinking Line has a robust and supple core and a slick coating that easily helps it slip through the water. It also features welded loops at both ends for easy rigging.
13. RIO InTouch Big Nasty Sink Tip Line
The RIO InTouch Big Nasty Sink Tip is the perfect fly fishing accessory for anglers who want to fish deep, fast water.
This sink tip has a long, heavy tippet that allows you to get your fly down to the fish quickly. The Big Nasty also features a built-in shock leader, which helps protect your tippet from being blown out by the current.
14. RIO Perception Elite WF Line
The RIO Perception Elite WF Line is the perfect fly line for anglers looking to maximize their fishing experience. This line has a unique taper that ensures each cast is smooth and accurate, while the weight-forward design provides enough power to send your fly deep into the water. Whether you’re fishing for trout or bass, this line will help you catch more fish.
15. Tenkara USA Level Line
Tenkara USA’s Level Line is the perfect addition to your Tenkara kit. This line is designed to help you keep your flies at the correct depth, making it easier to catch fish.
The Level Line is color-coded, so you can easily see how deep your flies swim. Plus, the line is made of durable Polyvinylidene Fluoride to withstand wear and tear.
Slap this premium fishing line on a Japanese Tenkara fly rod, and you will catch your limit of trout in no time!
As you can see, several great options for fly fishing lines for trout. The best line for you will depend on the type of fly you’re using and the depth of water you’re fishing in. Be sure to consider the line’s weight, taper, and material when making your decision.
Now that we’ve looked at the different types of fly fishing lines and shared our top picks let’s discuss how to care for your fly fishing line.
Buyers Guide: 10 Best Fluorocarbon Fishing Lines
How to Care for Your Fly Fishing Line
It’s important to properly care for your fly fishing line to ensure it lasts long. Here are some tips on how to care for your fly fishing line:
-Store your line in a cool, dry place when you’re not using it.
-Avoid getting sand, dirt, or other debris on your line.
– rinse your line with fresh water after each use.
– don’t leave your line in direct sunlight for extended periods.
– inspect your line regularly for wear and tear.
These simple tips will help you get the most out of your fly fishing line.
Now that we’ve looked at the different types of fly fishing lines and shared our top picks let’s discuss how to use your fly fishing line to catch more trout.
Tips on Using Your Fly Fishing Line to Catch More Trout
Here are some tips on using your fly fishing line to catch more trout:
– Use a lighter line for dry flies and a heavier line for nymphs and wet flies.
– Use a tapered leader to help your presentation.
– Use a knotless tapered leader for an even more delicate presentation.
– Try different retrieval speeds to see w25hat the fish are responding to.
– Experiment with different depths to find where the fish are feeding.
Utilizing these tips and the other information I have laid out in this article will help you catch more trout in less time.
Fishing Guide: 25 Best Fly Fishing Rivers in the USA
Conclusion – Best Fly Fishing Lines for Trout
We hope this article has helped you understand the different types of fly fishing lines and what to look for in a good trout fly fishing line. Be sure to consider the line’s weight, taper, and material when making your decision.
And don’t forget to properly care for your fly fishing line to ensure it lasts a long time. Experiment with different depths and retrieval speeds to find what works best for you. These tips will help you catch more trout with your fly fishing line. Happy fishing!
Thanks for reading! We hope this article was helpful. If you have any questions or want to share your experiences, please comment below. We’d love to hear from you!
Check out our other articles on fly fishing:
- Fly Fishing Beginners Guide – Discover What You Need for Fly Fishing
- Best Bait for Brown Trout – What Works Best in Rivers and Streams
- Fly Fishing Bream – Where and When to Catch Bream
Cory Haasnoot
Cory is a content writer-editor and founder of Tackle Box Talk. Favorite Quote: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."