Fly Fishing : Learn more about fly lines

Types of Fly Lines

Most of the lines that you'll use for fly fishing will be made of nylon monofilament.  However, other lines are becoming just as popular such as lines that are (1) braided, (2) co-filament, or (3) fused.  No matter what type of line you buy make sure that it's a "premium" line.  Premium lines are more durable and even than cheaper lines.  You'll want to match the fishing line that you buy to the following criteria and conditions:

* Strength:  Strength is measured in the pounds of force that is needed to break the line.  You'll find that most lines will break at higher weights than they are sold at.
* Resistance to Abrasion:  When you're fishing in areas where there are a lot of brush or rocks you'll want to use a line that won't break easily when it is constantly rubbed.
* Line Diameter:  The diameter of the line will affect the way the line is cast as well as how deep your lure will run.  Diameter also has an affect on the visibility and stretching of the line.  The thinner a line is the harder it will be for the bass to see it.  Thinner lines will also give some bait, such as grubs, a more realistic flowing action.  The one good thing about lines with a thicker diameter is that they are better able to withstand abrasion.
* Stretch Lines:  Stretch lines won't break as easily when they are being pulled by a fish.  They are beneficial in letting you detect strikes as well as help you in setting hooks.
* Line Stiffness:  The stiffness of the line is related to its stretch.  The stiffer the line is the harder it will be to cast.  The advantage to having a stiff line is that is more sensitive than flexible lines.
* Line visibility:  In clear water it's important that your line is as invisible to the fish as possible.  However, you'll want to have a line that is highly visible when your fishing lures are on a subtle strike, such as worms, grubs, and jigs.  This is so that you can easily detect any movement on the line that may indicate a fish is biting.

Protecting your Fly Line

There are many things that can damage your fly line that includes:  casting the line without a leader, stepping on the line, or pinching the line between the frame of the reel and the spool.  Take steps to avoid these hazards.  There are also many liquid items that can damage your fly line.  Make sure that you keep the line away from insect repellent, sun block, fuel, and some line cleaners. 
 
Cleaning your Fly Line

Keeping your fly line is essential to the performance of your fly fishing.  Dirt will get on your line from algae that are found in the waters where you fish.  Over time the dirt will get on your line and this can caused your line to become stripped down.  You'll know when your fly line is too dirty because it won't float as well nor will it slide smoothly through the rod guides.
 
Cleaning your fly line is easy:  use a cleaning pad that you can buy at most angling stores.  Or you can also wash the fly line with a few drops of a mild soap (avoid detergents).  Just rub the line gently with a damp cloth.

Storing your Fly Line

Your reel is the safest place for you to have your line.  The only thing that you need to make sure of is that your line isn't exposed to chemicals, high heats, direct sunlight, or solvents.  There will be times when your line has been stored for a while and it will coil.  If this occurs you need to stretch it slowly; it will soon start to give and you can use it safely once again.