Fly Lines

Fly Fishing Lines

A Fly-line is often equated to the tires on a car. You can have a great car (Rod) and great engine(Reel), but none of it works without a good set of tires. That’s why for many anglers the Fly-line is the second most important component to your Fly-fishing system.

You should choose your fly line to match the weight rod you are using (eg: A 5 weight rod, 5 Weight line). Depending on the fish you are going after and the type of fly fishing climate and water conditions you will be fishing. You need to choose a fly line that compliments the rod as much as anything. Fly-lines range anywhere from 70-110 feet.

When fly fishing was first introduced, fly lines were made of horsehair. As people and anglers understood the subtleties of fly fishing, they developed fly lines made of silk for extra smooth delivery and sturdiness.

Fly-line technology has come a long way in recent years . Most fly-lines are manufactured with a core of braided nylon or dacron. This core is then coated with PVC, which has been treated with various substances such as microscopic glass spheres for floatability or other additives that cause the line to sink at various desired rates (called multiple density production). Also many lines are treated with some kind of material usually proprietary to that manufacturer to make the line slicker. Meaning that the line moves through the guides with less friction. Less friction equals longer casts, easier feeding and retrieving of line. Fly-line durability is also very important.

What Are Tapers in Fly Lines?

You must understand it’s the line that we are casting, not the fly. So to create the energy that will propel the fly, the rod and line must work together to create the energy to get the fly where you want it. Tapers equalize the energy that develops from the rod to the line. This is where the taper of the line is important.

Fly-line taper is a small adjustment made by the manufacturer of the fly line to the fly line itself. This generally involves making parts of the line thicker in spots, heavier in spots, thinner in other spots, lighter in other spots. These adjustments to the fly line are done to give the angler better control of the line which, in theory, means improved casting. There are really only a couple different types of tapers in fly lines, but it’s the small variances in those tapers that will make a certain line cast better with the different action rods.

Weight-Forward Taper (WF) Are the most common of Fly-lines tapers there are nowadays. A Tip-flex (fast action) rod requires a line that has a more progressive forward taper. Meaning that there is added weight at the very front of the line so that the rod will load with less line on the water. These lines are most of the time a Half to Three quarters of a line weight heavier. A Mid-flex (medium action) rod will mostly be fine with a regular Weight-forward line. A Full-flex(slow action) rod will have a line with less weight placed at the front and more in the middle to create more subtle presentations. In Trout fishing if we are using a 5 weight rod we are going to use either a WF5F(floating) or WF5S(sinking or sink tip) line.

Double-taper(DT) lines place the thick(weighted)part in the middle of the fly line. Double tapers are longer than weight-forward ones. A double taper fly line is commonly used for short casts but is not practical for long casts. A Double-taper line is usually matched to the lighter weight rods 1-3 for subtle representations of small dry flies. They can also be turned around since the taper is the same at both ends. This can give the line a second life.

Level-Lines When the fly line has no taper, it is called level-taper. Level-taper fly lines don’t really allow for delivery smoothness and are, therefore, rather uncommon. But have become more common for European Nymphing and Tenkara fishing Fly-lines are also numbered to match the line’s weight to the weight rod you are using.

What Are Floating and Sinking Fly Lines?

Floating fly lines float on the surface of the water. They are the most common type of line and the easiest to use. Floating fly lines are better when fishing in windy conditions and are versatile enough for short and long casting.

Sinking fly lines are lines that sink into the water. These types of fly lines are graded depending on the speed and depth with which they sink. An intermediate fly line sinks slowly in the water.

Why do you need a sinking fly line? If you are fishing for fish that don’t come to the surface of the water, you want your fly to reach them inside the water, therefore you need a sinking fly line. If your fish are deep in the water, you will want a fast-sinking fly line: you want your fly to be tempting enough without alerting the fish that it’s bait, hence the need for speed.

As for sink-tip fly lines, most of the line floats but the last part sinks in the water. Sink-tip fly lines are used for fishing fish deep in the water. Their benefit is that most of the line stays atop the water: when you need to throw your line for recast, you won’t have to retrieve the full length of the line from the water.

Are There Differences Between Saltwater and Freshwater Lines?

Fly-lines are either made for freshwater or saltwater. Freshwater lines are usually fished in colder water and are made to be more supple for colder climates. A Bass line will be a little less supple then a Trout or Salmon line Freshwater lines are more opaque in color. Moss green, dull yellow or gray to match the surroundings of the fish. Saltwater lines are made to be more ridgid anh heavier construction for fishing to large fish in tropical conditions and many are colored blue or even clear so they are less visible to the fish.

How Long Will A Fly-Line Last?

At the beginning of this section we discussed how your line is like the tires on a car. Well like tires, Fly-lines have a finite life and that life depends on how well you take care of your line. Think about how much wear and tear a line will go through the Friction of moving through the rod’s guides, dirt, scraping on rocks of other debris in the water to being stretched and the heat and cold. Being wet then dry all over again and again will do damage to the line over time. Most line manufatuerer’s claim that a line if well taken care of should give you between 80-100 days on the water. So cleaning and maintaining your line will prevent cracks and dirt build up.

Fly Fishing Outfitters Have the Fly Line You Need

Whether you are fishing in saltwater or freshwater, we have the fly line you need, including Orvis fly lines and Rio Fly lines and many other manufacturers. We are always able to special order any flyline you are looking for. We carry several fly line weights and tapers to help anglers catch the fish they want. You will find floating and sinking lines as well sink tip lines as well as various fly line weights.

Showing 16–30 of 39 results

Monic Skyline Plus Flylines
$89.99 – $99.99
Like any great product, Monic flylines were born out of a flyfisherman’s frustration with the product he was using at the time. In the 80’s, avid angler Bob Goodale was fishing in Belize and having a heck of a time casting in the wind with a long leader. His frustration fueled his passion to design and develop a clear floating fly line that would enable him to use a short leader which would provide more stealth and not spook fish. After years of research & development, in 1994 he introduced the first Covert Clear line to the market and Monic was born.
For nearly 30 years, Monic has been innovating and developing new ways to improve fly line performance and decrease fly line impact on the environment. No matter if your fishing high pressure locations that demand precise presentations, or under clear skies and bright sun, Monic fly lines continue to be the best on the market.
Taper – Our Javelin Taper is perfect for any angler seeking a more aggressive and easy casting line. The front loaded design of the Javelin allows the angler to shoot line with ease when longer casts are necessary or when windy conditions are a hindrance. The more aggressive nature makes it great for turning over cumbersome flies such as streamers, poppers, or heavy nymph and indicator rigs. Additionally, the increased mass in the initial belly portion of the head will more effectively load your rod with less line out making for more efficient casts at close range.
New Coating- The tried and true Skyline coating has delivered high performance and extreme durability for years, but now has more slickness than ever! We’ve used the same naturally buoyant formula as before, but have now added higher levels of our slickening agent to improve overall performance and durability. Built directly into the line, this slickness cannot wear away. With a hint of light sky blue color added to keep a stealthy and unobtrusive fly line, you will still be able to have the advantage of stealth on your side when targeting spooky fish in low or clear water conditions.
The toughness of the Skyline coating produces a more durable, longer-lasting fly line compared to most conventional PVC constructed fly lines. Its high abrasion resistance helps these lines hold up in some of the most brutal fishing conditions where rough coral, sharp rocks, and heavy surf can break down other lines in just a few outings.
Core-The Skyline series utilizes our zero-stretch GSP (gel spun polyethylene) core for a very unique and ultra-sensitive fly fishing experience. The no-stretch properties of the GSP give the angler superior control while casting and creates exceptional line speed for increased distance and quick repositioning of your presentation. Additionally, the zero-stretch provides the angler with unmatched sensitivity. You will be able to feel even the smallest of strikes as well as the tiny ticks of your fly as it bumps through bottom structure of the waters. Hook-sets can be quick and effortless, even small strip-sets from 60 plus feet are effective as no force is lost from the rod to the tip of your fly line.
The slight rigidness of the GSP makes it the perfect core material for those warm weather fishing environments. It will help to maintain the fly line’s original stiffness even in the extreme temps of the tropics. No more trying to cast a wet spaghetti noodle on those extra warm days.
https://youtu.be/tVYfFCqR4XA

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Orvis Clearwater Fly Line
$49.00
The Orvis Clearwater Fly Line 2020 is a perfect fly fine for beginners who want to cast at long distances. Available at a very affordable price, the fly line is perfect for new users to improve their casting skills. Made using micro texture technology, the fly line has excellent floating ability and it also repels dirt, sand and algae that can affect floatation in water. The Orvis clearwater fly line is available only in the moss green color on the Fly Fishing Outfitters website. The fly line is available in 7 weight options from 3 to 9.
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Orvis Clearwater Int. Sink
$59.00
The Orvis Clearwater Intermediate sinking line is a great value option to get flies down under the surface and into the strike zone with a 1.25 ips sink rate. Good for all types of water, from lakes and ponds to deeper rivers. Front welded loop and a braided multifilament core for for cold moderate water temps.
5-8 weight. 90′ long. In clear.
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Orvis Clearwater Sinking Line
$59.00
The Clearwater Type VI Sink Fly line is an economical option for carrying flies below the surface and into the swing zone at a sink rate of 6 IPS. It is good for all types of water like lakes, ponds, or deep rivers. It has a welded front loop and multifilament braided core for cold to medium water temperatures. The Clearwater Type VI Sinking Line comes in 5 to 8 weights and it is 90’ long. Manufactured by Orvis in the United States, the line is available only in Black.
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Orvis Hydros Bank Shot Floating Line
$79.00
The Hydros Bank Shot Float is designed to offer fast shooting and versatility in a variety of situations. The floating line is great for one time casts and delivering large flies. The Hydros Bank Shot fly line is made of short but strong head that helps it load quickly and minimize the chances of false casts. The Hydros Bank Shot float line is available in 7 weight options. You can choose the one based on your requirements. Here are the main features of the Hydros Bank Shot Floating Lines.
- Smooth coat with AST slickness
- Line length is 90’. Color changes at 30’
- Comes with dual welded loops
- Short but powerful head to minimize false casts
- Available in 5 to 11 weights.
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Orvis Hydros Bank Shot Intermediate Sink Tip
$89.00
The Hydros Bank Shot Sink Tip is the best solution for the fly fisherman who wants to throw under penetrating conditions or to large flies in impassable places. Whether you want to throw underhand or throw where you are required to leave your fly rod immediately and deliver your fly with precision on the opposite bank.
If you find it challenging to keep your fly line free in the back throw or simply struggle while throwing, the Orvis hydros bank shot sink tip is the right solution to your entire fly fishing requirements.
The line consists of a short, heavy curve with a front band that can twist even with the largest sea trout or salmon flies in the creek, and where the curve gives your line an incredible speed so that it can be shot far and efficiently.
The line comes in a variety of styles so you can find the one that exactly suits your fishing water needs. The line has a short but heavy head with an 8’ fast sink tip and a 5 ips sink rate. It loads the rod fast and minimizes the chances of false casts.
The line is coated with AST dry slick technology (self-lubricating) so that it does not dry out and dirt and algae do not easily settle on the line. In other words, it is a fly line that releases lubrication so that your fly line lasts longer and offers less resistance and therefore a longer and more precise fly cast can be fired efficiently.
A line that you see in several different identities so you can find the one that exactly suits your water needs. Loops and finished marking is given by the company to quickly identify the line any time. It is great for one time casts and for delivering large flies, single hand spey and roll casts.
The Hydros Bank Shot Sink Tip line is equipped with dual welded loops for an easy and seamless connection to the leader and backing. The color of the line changes at 30’ and the black sing olive tip has a total length of 90’. The Hydros Bank Shot Sink Tip is made in the USA.
The line is designed for use in moderate and cold temperatures. It is available in the three color options and 7 weight options. You can choose the color and weight option
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Orvis Hydros Superfine Fly Line
$79.00
The Orvis Hydros Superfine Fly Lines New 2020 is designed as a fast-loading trout fly display line for scenarios where camouflage and subtlety are essential. The straight line slowly introduces the flies and moves the reeds closer. The Orvis Hydros Superfine Fly Lines is excellent to use for spring currents, small pools and tight fishing conditions. Here are the best features of the New Orvis Hydros Superfine Fly Lines:
- Smooth Fly Line with AST Slickness
- Integrated Slickness
- Slim and durable welded loop on both ends
- Floating fly line designed to enhance the casting capabilities
- Available in two colors – Dark Olive and Willow
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Orvis Hydros Trout Fly Line
$79.00
The Orvis Hydros Trout Fly Line 2020 is one of the best fly lines made by Orvis to date. It is suitable for beginners and for using a variety of fly fishing techniques. Ideal for short and long casts, the Hydros Trout Fly Line is a full size line for distance casting. There are durable welded loops in front of the Hydros Trout Fly Line. The fly line comes with AST slickness with smooth coating. The color changes at 30’ from the front tip of the line.
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Orvis Power Taper Smooth Fly Line
$98.00
The Orvis PRO Power Taper Fly Line is designed for loading faster action rods at a half-size heavier than industry standard grain weight. All Orvis fly lines are actually produced by Scientific Angers since 2013. The advanced compound taper design allows for easier turn-over of heavier rigs including larger dries, dry-dropper rigs, nymphs, and streamers. The Power Taper will load a rod at a shorter distance than a traditionally weighted line, helping to enhance “feel” and improve timing during the cast. The 50′ head adds length for better line control and loop stability and the longer head excels at on-water maintenance for mending on longer drifts.
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Orvis Power Taper Textured Fly Line
$129.00

Since 2013 all Orvis fly lines have been designed and produced by Scientific Anglers, who have been an industry leader. PRO Textured Power Taper Fly Lines offer increased surface area, allowing the line to sit higher in the water, offering less drag, easier mending, less water spray and easier pick-ups. The micro-textured surface traps air to provide increases in both shootability and floatation while decreasing friction.
The Orvis PRO Power Taper is designed for loading faster action rods at a half-size heavier than industry standard grain weight. The advanced compound taper design allows for easier turn-over of heavier rigs, including larger dries, dry-dropper rigs, nymphs, and streamers. The Power Taper will load a rod deeper and quicker than a traditionally weighted line, helping to enhance “feel” and improve timing during the cast. The 50′ head adds length for better line control and loop stability and the longer head excels at on-water maintenance for mending on longer drifts
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Orvis Pro Depth Charge 3D Fly Line Smooth
$98.00
The Orvis Pro Depth Charge 3D is a special sinking line that is designed for streamers to use in a wide range of fishing destinations. It’s a great option for streamer junkies and fly fishing lovers. Orvis has given plenty of features in the Pro Depth charge 3D for enhanced performance. You can target trout on a freestone stream or musky in a deep water river, with the Orvis Pro depth charge 3D line and keep your fly longer in the feeding zone.
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Orvis Pro Power Tapered Fly Line
$129.00
Orvis Pro trout is one of the most versatile trout lines available in the market. The line is a superior offering to its previous textured version. The Orvis Pro trout line offers you tons of features that make it the best trout line. Made with compound tapers, it is available to use in a variety of environments.
It comes with a 50-inch head that has a front taper and a powerful belly for easy casting and presentation. It is designed to deliver flies precisely across a range of distances. If you are looking for the next best trout line, there is nothing better than the Orvis Pro trout line.
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Orvis Pro Saltwater All Rounder
$98.00 – $129.00
In 2013 orvis bought Scientific Anglers. Sa has been one of the industry’s leaders in flyline manufacturing for decades. Orvis knew better then to mess with a good thing. All Orvis/SA line are still produced in the same exacting ways and the same regard for quality. The PRO Saltwater All-Rounder Smooth Fly Line is a completely reimagined and advanced compound taper from its predecessor. This line is the do-it-all saltwater line that has the power to reach that distant target, and a fast-loading, front compound taper to make a few quick shots in a row. The dual belly helps add stability to the line, and allows for easy casting and pickups. It is built on our multifilament core so it can easily perform in cool weather. Can also be very effective for larger freshwater application such as bass, pike, or carp.
PRO Textured lines offer increased surface area, allowing the line to sit higher in the water, offering less drag, easier mending, less water spray and easier pick-ups. The micro-textured surface traps air to provide increases in both shootability and floatation while decreasing friction.
https://youtu.be/pPP3X2tgx6M
Available in smooth and textured 6-10wt.
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Orvis Pro Saltwater All Rounder-Smooth
$98.00

Since 2013 all of Orvis’s lines have been produces by Scientific Anglers. SA is one of the most recognized and highest quality fly line manufactures in the industry. The PRO Saltwater All-Rounder Smooth Fly Line is a completely reimagined and advanced compound taper from its predecessor. This line is the do-it-all saltwater line that has the power to reach that distant target, and a fast-loading, front compound taper to make a few quick shots in a row. The dual belly helps add stability to the line, and allows for easy casting and pickups. It is built on our multifilament core so it can easily perform in cool weather. Dual welded loops. Can also be very effective for larger freshwater application such as bass, pike, or carp. The front taper is a blue horizon color.
Available in 6-10 wt.
https://youtu.be/pPP3X2tgx6M
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Orvis Pro Saltwater Textured Tropic Flylines
$129.00
Since 2013 when Orvis purchased Scientific Anglers all Orvis lines have been produced by SA with the help of Orvis’s product development team. SA has long been an industry innovator when it comes to producing high quality flylines. The Orvis PRO Saltwater Tropic Textured Fly Lines offer increased surface area, allowing the line to sit higher in the water, offering less drag, easier mending, less water spray and easier pick-ups. The micro-textured surface traps air to provide increases in both shootability and floatation while decreasing friction.
AST slickness technology means that the slickness is built into the line and not a secondary coating. this means that the pro lines will always remail slick and last long then other lines. PRO Saltwater Tropic is an exceptional line designed to meet the needs of anglers chasing tropic game fish, whether by skiff or wading the flats. The line was built with a stout head for wind-cutting power and distance casting ability, and yet the carefully engineered advanced, convex compound front taper is fine-tuned to improve the presentation for those spooky fish cruising a flat. The PRO Saltwater Tropic is built on a stiff monofilament core to retain optimum performance in hot weather and warmer water.
Available in 6 wt.-12 wt.
https://youtu.be/pPP3X2tgx6M
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