Standard Fly Line Weight Charts give us parameters for specific fly line sizes. We have listed the fly line weights as they relate to actual weight of the fly line in grains or grams. This is a measure of the weight of the first 30′ of fly line excluding the level tip which attaches to the leader. This is the standard set by the AFTMA (No longer in existence) and adopted by the AFFTA (American Fly Fishing Trade Association). For practical purposes; the larger the fly line size, the larger fly it will cast. The longer the amount of fly line you are casting the more the fly line outside of the rod tip weighs. (As a general rule, the fly line size will increase or decrease by one line size for every 5' of fly line you add or subtract from the AFFTA 30' Standard)
When applying the standard weight charts to your fishing, many variables come in to play. A few of these variables are the actual type of fly line you are casting (Bass Bug Taper, Tarpon Taper, Sink Tip, Trout Taper, etc), your expected casting distance (10' vs. 70'), the size of the fly and your level of experience.
Today's modern fly lines are much more specialized due to advances in technology, changes in fishing styles and the broad range of target species. The below charts are of little use in many modern fishing situations and should only be used as a reference.
Today, more than ever, it is important to do your homework before you commit to any one particular fly line or fly line size for your fishing situations. Give us a call (540-984-4212) if you need help determining which fly line will produce the results you are looking for.
