What Type of Backing Line Should I Use for Fly Fishing?

When you are fly fishing, one of the most important pieces of gear is the backing line. Backing line, also known as backing, is a thin, high-strength line that is attached to the reel before the fly line. It serves a few purposes, such as helping to increase the amount of line capacity on your reel and providing extra protection against abrasion in case of a big fish or snag.

Different Types of Backing Lines

There are several different types of backing available for fly fishing. The most common type is braided Dacron or GSP (gel spun polyethylene). Dacron is a traditional material that has been used for many years, while GSP is newer and offers higher strength and abrasion resistance at a lighter weight.

Both materials are available in various colors such as white, yellow, orange, and green. Another type of backing line is fluorocarbon. Fluorocarbon has extremely low visibility in water and offers excellent knot strength and abrasion resistance.

Choosing the Right Backing Line

When choosing the right backing line for your fly fishing setup, consider what type of species you will be Targeting and how much capacity you need on your reel. If you plan to Target larger species such as tarpon or pike then it’s best to go with a heavier-duty material like GSP or fluorocarbon. If you’re Targeting smaller species like trout then a lighter material like Dacron should suffice.

Conclusion

The type of backing line you should use for fly fishing depends on what species you are Targeting and how much capacity you need on your reel. For larger species such as tarpon or pike, it’s best to use either GSP or fluorocarbon for increased strength and abrasion resistance.

For smaller species like trout, Dacron should be sufficient. Ultimately it comes down to personal preference so make sure to do your research before making your purchase!

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Lindsay Collins