
Fly Fishing Gear | Floating Fly Line
Small streams, trout flies, nymph rigs, dry droppers, you name it, a floating line can do it. A good quality line is a vital component of your setup for casting, mending, and looks. Check out our curated range from Rio and Scientific Anglers.
WHAT IS A FLOATING FLY LINE? A floating fly line is a specialized type of fishing line designed to stay on the surface of the water, offering a unique advantage for various fly fishing techniques. This type of line is typically constructed with a core material, such as braided nylon or monofilament, which is then coated with a buoyant plastic material. The coating is often made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) or other synthetic polymers infused with tiny air bubbles or microspheres that help keep the line afloat. The primary purpose of a floating fly line is to enable the angler to present flies on or near the surface of the water. Unlike sinking lines, which are used to target fish at greater depths, floating lines are ideal for situations where fish are feeding on or just below the water's surface. The design of these lines allows for smooth casting, excellent control, and precise presentations, making them a versatile choice for anglers. WHEN TO USE A FLOATING LINE? Floating fly lines are the go-to choice for many fly fishing scenarios, particularly when you want to target fish at or near the surface. Here are some detailed scenarios where a floating fly line excels: Dry Fly Fishing: Dry fly fishing is perhaps the most iconic form of fly fishing, where the angler uses flies designed to imitate insects that land or float on the water's surface. In this technique, a floating fly line is indispensable. The buoyant nature of the line keeps the fly riding high on the water, allowing it to drift naturally with the current. This natural presentation is crucial for enticing fish to strike, especially when they are feeding on the surface. Floating lines also enable the angler to achieve delicate casts and control the drift of the fly, increasing the chances of success. Nymphing and Indicator Fishing: While nymphing often involves fishing below the surface, a floating fly line is still essential in many nymphing scenarios, particularly when using a strike indicator. A strike indicator is a small, buoyant object attached to the leader that signals when a fish takes the fly. The floating line supports the indicator on the water's surface, making it easier to detect subtle strikes. In shallow waters or when using unweighted or lightly weighted nymphs, a floating line allows for precise depth control and effective mending, helping to maintain a natural drift. This setup is especially useful in rivers and streams where fish are feeding below the surface. Fishing with Poppers or Other Topwater Flies: When targeting predatory species such as Australian Bass, Murray cod, Barramundi or even saltwater species like tarpon, floating fly lines are often paired with poppers, sliders, or other topwater flies. These flies are designed to create surface disturbances that mimic the movements of prey, triggering aggressive strikes from fish. The floating line keeps the fly on the surface, allowing the angler to create enticing splashes and movements that draw fish from below. This type of fishing is highly visual and exciting, as you can often see the fish as they strike. DOES THE COLOUR OF MY FLY LINE MATTER? The colour of your fly line can significantly impact your fishing experience, affecting both your visibility and potentially the fish's response. Here's a closer look at why colour matters and how to choose the right one: Visibility to the Angler: The colour of your fly line plays a crucial role in your ability to see and control it during casting and retrieval. Brightly coloured lines, such as those in orange, yellow, or neon green, are highly visible against most backgrounds. This visibility is especially important in low-light conditions, such as early morning or late evening, and in fast-moving water where tracking your line is critical. Being able to see your line clearly helps you monitor the drift, detect strikes, and make necessary adjustments while fishing. For beginners, a brightly coloured line can be particularly beneficial, as it makes learning and refining casting techniques easier. Visibility to Fish: While bright lines are easier for anglers to see, they can also be more visible to fish, particularly in clear, calm waters. Fish can be wary of unnatural objects in their environment, and a brightly coloured line might spook them, reducing your chances of a successful catch. In such scenarios, opting for a more subtle, natural-coloured line—such as olive, brown, or grey—can help reduce the chances of alerting fish to your presence. These colours blend more seamlessly with the surroundings, making them less noticeable to fish, especially in still or shallow waters. Personal Preference and Conditions: Ultimately, the choice of fly line colour may come down to personal preference and the specific conditions you’re fishing in. In murky or turbulent waters, where visibility is already limited, the colour of the line may be less of a concern, allowing you to prioritize your own visibility over that of the fish. However, if you're fishing in clear streams or lakes, especially for species known to be cautious or easily spooked, a more discreet line colour might improve your success rate. Some anglers also prefer to carry multiple lines in different colours to match various fishing conditions, ensuring they are always prepared. If you have a particular fly line in mind but would appreciate some additional advice. Simply get in touch with our friendly sales team – they’re always up for a chat. You can contact us by calling our Tumut store on (02) 6947 4062 or by email.
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