Fly fishing demands reliable equipment, and your reel is no exception. While the fly line itself is crucial, the backing plays a vital, often overlooked role. Many anglers are turning to braided line as backing, and for good reason. This guide will explore the benefits, drawbacks, and best practices for using braided line as backing on your fly fishing reel.
Why Use Braided Line as Backing?
Braided line offers several compelling advantages over traditional monofilament backing:
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High Strength-to-Diameter Ratio: Braided lines pack significantly more strength into a smaller diameter than monofilament. This means you can store a greater length of backing on your reel, increasing your capacity for fighting large fish or long runs.
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Durability: Braided lines are highly resistant to abrasion and wear, making them a long-lasting option. This is especially beneficial in situations with rocky bottoms or submerged obstacles.
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Low Stretch: The minimal stretch in braided line allows for better hook sets and increased sensitivity when detecting subtle bites. This is particularly important when targeting wary fish.
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Compactness: The thin diameter of braided line allows you to store more backing on your reel, leaving more space for your fly line and leader.
What are the Disadvantages of Using Braided Line as Backing?
Despite the many advantages, braided line also presents some drawbacks:
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Knot Strength: While incredibly strong, braided line can be more challenging to tie strong knots. Proper knot selection and execution are crucial to prevent line failure. The Albright knot is a popular choice for joining braided backing to fly line.
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Abrasion on the Spool: The abrasive nature of some braided lines can potentially damage the spool of your reel over time. Regular inspection and maintenance are recommended.
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Memory: Some braided lines exhibit memory, causing them to coil tightly and making retrieval slightly more challenging. This issue is less prevalent in newer, higher-quality braided lines.
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Visibility: The thin diameter and often dark color of braided lines can make it difficult to see the remaining backing length on your spool.
What Type of Braided Line is Best for Backing?
Not all braided lines are created equal. For fly fishing backing, look for lines specifically designed for this purpose. These lines often feature a smoother surface to minimize abrasion on your reel spool and are constructed with high-tenacity fibers for superior strength. Check the line's specifications to ensure it has a high breaking strength relative to its diameter. Consider lines made from materials like Dyneema or Spectra.
How Much Backing Should I Use?
The amount of backing needed depends on several factors, including:
- Reel Size: Larger reels will naturally hold more backing.
- Fly Line Length: Longer fly lines require more backing.
- Target Species: Fighting larger fish requires significantly more backing.
- Fishing Conditions: Expecting long runs demands extra capacity.
A general rule of thumb is to fill your reel about halfway with backing before adding your fly line.
How to Tie Braided Backing to Fly Line?
The Albright knot is widely considered the best knot for joining braided backing to fly line. It creates a very strong, reliable connection. Ensure you practice tying the knot beforehand to achieve perfect execution. Many detailed tutorials are available online.
Can I Use Braided Line as Backing on All Reels?
While braided line works well with most fly reels, some older reels may not be compatible due to the smaller diameter of the braided line. Check your reel's specifications to ensure compatibility.
Is Braided Backing More Expensive Than Monofilament?
Generally, braided backing is more expensive than monofilament backing. However, the increased strength and durability often justify the higher cost, especially for anglers targeting large fish or fishing in challenging environments.
Does Braided Backing Affect My Casting?
With proper spooling and a sufficient amount of fly line, braided backing should not negatively impact your casting performance.
In conclusion, braided line offers significant advantages as fly fishing reel backing, particularly its high strength-to-diameter ratio and durability. However, it's crucial to choose a high-quality line and use appropriate knots to fully reap its benefits and minimize any potential drawbacks. Careful consideration of your specific needs and fishing style will determine if braided backing is the right choice for you.
