From top to bottom A Look at Sinking Lines Gerald Darkes
Rasmus Ovesen
If there is one type of fly-fishing gear the average angler can add to their kit that opens a whole new dimension of angling opportunities it would be sinking lines. These can be used in a wide range of scenarios to take flies to fish where regular floating lines just can’t get the job done. Understanding when and how to put sinking lines into use can be a game changer for many fly fishers and these lines are absolutely necessary for some situations.
W
e are going to take a look at the various types of sinking lines available today and how they can be used. Single-hand rods will be the main objective due to the extensive range of waters and species that can be targeted with them. No matter where you fish, having some sort of a sinking line with you makes sense. There are times that this can make or break a day on the water. OK, so why do we need anything beyond a floating line? I can just use a weighted fly and maybe some split shot to take a fly below the surface, right? True,
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FLYFISH EUROPE - SPRING 202
that will work in situations where the fly is dead-drifted under an indicator or fished Euro-nymph style. This setup certainly has its place and catches plenty of fish. But you can only do so much with weight and a floating line. If you need to swim the fly below the surface for a distance and have it hold depth for a period of time, the sinking line comes into play. Sure, you could use a 20-foot leader and heavy fly and maybe get a fly down around 20 feet (if you could even cast it), but as soon as you begin the retrieve the fly it is going to start to climb toward the surface.
