Fly fishing demands reliable equipment, and your reel's backing plays a crucial role in ensuring successful fishing trips. While many anglers traditionally use monofilament, braided line is increasingly popular as backing. This comprehensive guide explores the benefits, drawbacks, and considerations when using braided line as backing for your fly fishing reel.
What is Backing and Why Do I Need It?
Before diving into braided line, let's establish the purpose of backing. Backing is the line that fills the spool beneath your fly line. Its primary function is to provide extra capacity for long runs, especially when fighting large fish. Without backing, a fish could easily strip your fly line off the reel, leading to a lost fish and potentially a damaged reel.
Why Choose Braided Line as Backing?
Braided line offers several compelling advantages over traditional monofilament backing:
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High Strength-to-Diameter Ratio: Braided line boasts exceptional strength for its diameter. This means you can fit significantly more line onto your reel, giving you greater capacity for long fights with powerful fish.
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Small Diameter: The smaller diameter of braided line allows you to pack more backing onto the reel without sacrificing line capacity for your fly line.
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Durability: Braided line is highly resistant to abrasion, making it less susceptible to damage from rocks, branches, or the fish itself.
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No Memory: Unlike monofilament, braided line generally has little to no memory, meaning it won't coil up or form knots as easily. This smooth, consistent delivery is crucial for casting performance and preventing snags.
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Improved Sensitivity: Some anglers report improved sensitivity with braided line backing, allowing them to better feel subtle bites and strikes.
What are the Disadvantages of Using Braided Line as Backing?
Despite its advantages, braided line as backing isn't without its drawbacks:
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Potential for Knots: While less prone to knots than monofilament, braided lines can sometimes form knots if not handled carefully during spooling. Proper techniques are essential.
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Abrasion on the Fly Line: The very fine and strong fibers of braided line can cause slight abrasion to your fly line if not managed correctly.
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Initial Cost: Braided line can be slightly more expensive than monofilament.
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Less Stretch: The lack of stretch in braided line can make fighting certain fish more challenging, potentially increasing the risk of breakage if the fish makes a sudden run.
How Much Braided Backing Do I Need?
The amount of backing you need depends on your reel's capacity, the diameter of your fly line, and the size of fish you typically target. A good rule of thumb is to fill the spool approximately two-thirds full with backing, leaving enough space for your fly line and a leader. Consult your reel's instructions or manufacturer's specifications for more precise guidance.
What Type of Braided Line is Best for Backing?
Several brands offer braided lines specifically designed for fly reel backing. Look for lines with high tensile strength and a smooth, consistent diameter. Choose a diameter that allows for sufficient capacity while still leaving room for your fly line.
How to Spool Braided Line as Backing?
Proper spooling techniques are essential for preventing knots and ensuring optimal performance. Use a backing knot specifically designed for braided line and ensure a smooth, even winding process. You can find numerous helpful videos demonstrating effective techniques online.
Can I use Braided Line as Backing on All Reels?
While many fly reels are compatible with braided line backing, some older models may not be designed for its smaller diameter. Check your reel's specifications to ensure compatibility before spooling.
Is Braided Backing Worth the Cost?
For many anglers, the benefits of increased capacity, strength, and durability outweigh the slightly higher cost. If you frequently target large fish or fish in areas with challenging conditions, braided line as backing offers a significant advantage. However, if you mainly fish for smaller fish in calm waters, monofilament might suffice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right backing for your fly fishing reel significantly impacts your overall fishing experience. Braided line offers a compelling alternative to traditional monofilament backing, providing superior strength, capacity, and durability. By understanding its advantages and disadvantages, and employing proper spooling techniques, you can maximize its benefits and improve your fly fishing success.
