The Ultimate Guide to Fly Fishing Backing Line: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to “The Ultimate Guide to Fly Fishing Backing Line: Everything You Need to Know” – your comprehensive resource for all things fly fishing backing line. If you’re an avid fly fisher, then you already know the importance of having a quality backing line. However, if you’re new to the sport or just starting to learn the ropes, this guide will provide you with all the essential information to help you get started.

In this guide, you’ll learn what fly fishing backing line is and why it’s so important, the different types of backing lines available, how much backing line you need for fly fishing, how to choose the right backing line for your fishing needs, and how to properly install it. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a solid understanding of fly fishing backing line and be equipped with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your gear.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to refresh your knowledge or a beginner starting from scratch, this guide has something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of fly fishing backing line together.

Are you ready to take your fly fishing game to the next level? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about fly fishing backing line.

What is Fly Fishing Backing Line?

At its most basic, fly fishing backing line is the thin line that is attached to the spool of your fly reel before the fly line is added. It is often made of braided dacron or similar materials, and its primary function is to provide extra line when a fish pulls out more than what is on the fly reel.

Backing line is an essential component of any fly fishing setup. Without it, a fish may pull out all of your fly line and ultimately break your leader or fly off when it gets too close to the end of the line. With the backing line, you have a reserve of extra line to help you reel in the fish and prevent it from breaking free.

It is worth noting that the length and strength of your backing line should match the type of fish you are targeting and the weight of your fly line. This is important to consider when purchasing backing line, and it is recommended to consult with a professional to ensure that you get the right type for your needs.

The Definition of Fly Fishing Backing Line

Fly fishing backing line is an essential component of a fly fishing setup that is often overlooked by beginners. It is a thin, strong, and durable line that is attached to the arbor of a fly reel and provides extra length to the fly line, helping anglers to cast farther and reach deeper water.

The primary purpose of the backing line is to prevent the loss of a hooked fish by adding extra length to the line. In other words, it serves as a backup line in case the fish takes out all of the fly line, preventing it from breaking or running out of line. Additionally, backing line helps to balance the reel by filling up the spool, which improves the reel’s performance and prevents tangles.

Fly fishing backing line is made of different materials, including braided Dacron, monofilament, or gel-spun polyethylene fibers. The type of backing line used depends on the fishing conditions and personal preferences of the angler. The line is available in various strengths, ranging from 12 lbs to 80 lbs, and comes in different colors, including white, yellow, orange, and green.

The Purpose of Fly Fishing Backing Line

Backing line is an important component in fly fishing that serves a specific purpose. The primary function of backing line is to provide additional line capacity to your fly reel. This extra line enables you to catch bigger fish and increases the distance you can cast your line.

Moreover, when you are fly fishing for larger species, such as salmon or steelhead, a fish might take the line and run with it. If your reel doesn’t have enough backing line, the fish could strip your line and break it. With sufficient backing line, you’ll have the time to fight the fish without worrying about running out of line.

Another benefit of backing line is that it helps extend the life of your fly line by reducing wear and tear. By using backing line, you can also easily swap out different fly lines, depending on the fishing situation.

Why Do You Need Fly Fishing Backing Line?

Fly fishing backing line is an essential component of any fly fishing setup, and there are several reasons why you need it. The following are some of the most important reasons:

Provides extra line capacity: Backing line is designed to give you more line capacity when you’re fly fishing. This extra capacity is essential when you’re targeting larger fish or when you need to make longer casts.

Helps protect your fly line: When you’re fighting a fish, the fly line can rub against rocks, sticks, and other obstacles. This can damage the line and reduce its lifespan. Backing line acts as a buffer between the fly line and the obstacles, helping to protect the line.

Allows you to reel in your line faster: Backing line is typically thinner and lighter than fly line, which means you can reel it in faster. This can be especially useful when you’re trying to land a fish that’s swimming towards you.

Improves casting distance: With more line capacity, you can make longer casts, which means you can reach fish that are further away. This can be especially important in situations where the fish are wary and spook easily.

Gives you a better chance of landing the fish: When you’re fly fishing, you never know what you’re going to hook into. If you hook a big fish, having backing line can give you a better chance of landing it. With the extra line capacity, you’ll have more room to play the fish and tire it out.

To Prevent Running Out of Line

When fighting big fish, you can quickly run out of line if you do not have enough backing. Backing line is essential for extending the length of your fly line, allowing you to make longer casts and keep up with fast fish.

Even if you are not fishing for big fish, using backing line can help avoid spooking fish by allowing you to maintain distance from them. It also helps protect your fly line from wear and tear by reducing the amount of line that is exposed to the sun and other environmental elements.

Moreover, using backing line gives you a better chance of landing fish. It prevents the fish from pulling out all of your fly line and keeps the line taut, allowing you to maintain control of the fish and reel it in more easily.

To Protect Your Fishing Line

Another important reason to use fly fishing backing line is to protect your fishing line. When a fish takes your fly and runs, it can put a lot of strain on your line. Without backing, this strain can cause your line to break, leaving you empty-handed. However, when you have backing attached to your line, the strain is spread out over a larger area, reducing the risk of your line breaking.

In addition, backing line can also protect your fishing line from wear and tear caused by fishing in different environments. For example, fishing in saltwater can cause corrosion and damage to your line, but with a backing line in place, your fishing line is protected.

Furthermore, backing line can act as a shock absorber, cushioning the impact of a fish’s sudden movements. This can prevent your fishing line from snapping and losing the fish. Overall, backing line is an essential component of your fly fishing setup that can protect your fishing line and help you land more fish.

Types of Fly Fishing Backing Line

Monofilament: This type of backing is the most commonly used and is made of a single strand of material. It is usually made of nylon or Dacron and can be easily attached to the fly line.

Gel-Spun: This type of backing is a newer option and is made of a braided gel-spun polyethylene material. It is stronger than monofilament and takes up less space on the reel.

Braided Dacron: Braided Dacron backing is made of several strands of Dacron material woven together. It is strong and abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for bigger fish and saltwater fishing.

Flat Braid: This type of backing is made of a flat, braided material that takes up less space on the reel than round backing. It is strong and durable, but can be more expensive than other types of backing.

Wire: Wire backing is used for targeting larger, aggressive fish such as marlin and tuna. It is made of braided wire and is extremely strong, but also very expensive and can be difficult to work with.

Gel Spun Polyethylene (GSP) Backing Line

1. Gel Spun Polyethylene (GSP) is a popular material for backing lines due to its high strength-to-diameter ratio.

2. It is lightweight and thin, allowing anglers to increase the amount of line on their reel without adding extra weight. This is especially beneficial for fly fishing where every ounce counts.

3. GSP is also abrasion-resistant, which is important when fighting large and powerful fish. The last thing an angler wants is for their backing line to break due to abrasion.

4. Another benefit of GSP backing line is its low stretch properties. This means that it has less give than other materials, allowing anglers to feel more in tune with their line and detect bites more easily.

5. Braided backing lines made from GSP are also becoming more popular due to their increased strength and abrasion resistance compared to monofilament or Dacron backing lines.

GSP backing line is a versatile and reliable choice for anglers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, it’s worth considering GSP backing line for your next fishing adventure.

How Much Backing Line Do You Need for Fly Fishing?

Backing line is an important component of a fly fishing setup. It’s the line that sits between your fly reel and your fly line, and it’s there to provide extra length in case a fish takes a long run.

The amount of backing line you need depends on several factors, including the size of your reel, the weight of your fly line, and the type of fish you’re targeting. As a general rule, you should have enough backing line to fill your reel to within 1/8 to 1/4 inch of the edge of the spool.

For example, if you have a size 5/6 reel and a weight-forward fly line, you’ll need around 100 yards of backing line. If you’re targeting larger fish, such as salmon or steelhead, you may need even more backing line.

Factors That Determine the Amount of Backing Line Needed

As mentioned earlier, the amount of backing line needed depends on various factors. Here are some factors that play a role in determining the amount of backing line you’ll need for your fly fishing setup:

• Fly reel size: The size of your reel is an important factor to consider. A larger reel will typically require more backing line than a smaller reel.
• Fly line weight: The weight of your fly line also plays a role in determining how much backing line you’ll need. A heavier fly line will generally require more backing line.
• Fish species: The type of fish you’re targeting is another crucial factor. Larger fish will require more backing line to accommodate their long runs.
• Fishing conditions: The fishing conditions you’ll be facing are also important. If you’re fishing in deep waters or fast currents, you’ll need more backing line to help tire out the fish.
• Casting ability: Your casting ability is also a factor. If you’re an experienced caster, you may not need as much backing line as a beginner, who may need some extra line to make longer casts.

It’s important to note that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to how much backing line you’ll need for your fly fishing setup. Each fishing scenario is unique and requires careful consideration of the factors mentioned above. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you have the right amount of backing line to help you land your catch.

Formula for Calculating the Amount of Backing Line Needed

Calculating the amount of backing line you need for your fly fishing setup is a simple process that requires only a few pieces of information. The formula for calculating the amount of backing line needed is as follows:

Backing Line Length = (Fly Line Length x Reel Arbor Diameter x 0.6) ÷ 12

The fly line length refers to the length of the fly line you plan to use on your reel. The reel arbor diameter refers to the diameter of the center part of the reel where the backing line will be wound. The factor of 0.6 in the formula is an approximation of the amount of space the fly line will take up on the reel, and the division by 12 is to convert the measurement from inches to feet, which is the unit used for measuring backing line length.

It’s important to note that this formula provides an estimate and may need to be adjusted based on your personal preferences and fishing style. Some anglers prefer to have more backing line for longer runs, while others may prefer less backing line to reduce the weight of their setup. Experimenting with different amounts of backing line can help you find the perfect balance for your needs.

Recommended Amount of Backing Line for Different Fly Fishing Lines

Choosing the right amount of backing line for your fly fishing setup is crucial for ensuring that you can handle the big fish that you may encounter. The amount of backing line you need will depend on several factors, including the type of fishing line you are using, the size of the fish you are targeting, and the conditions you will be fishing in.

For example, if you are using a weight-forward fly line for trout fishing, you will typically need between 75 and 100 yards of backing line. However, if you are targeting larger species such as salmon or steelhead, you may need as much as 200 yards of backing line.

• If you are using a 3-weight line, you will need approximately 75 yards of backing line.
• If you are using a 5-weight line, you will need approximately 100 yards of backing line.
• If you are using a 7-weight line, you will need approximately 150 yards of backing line.
• If you are using a 9-weight line, you will need approximately 200 yards of backing line.
• If you are using a 12-weight line, you will need approximately 300 yards of backing line.

It’s worth noting that these are just general guidelines, and the amount of backing line you need may vary depending on your personal preferences and fishing style. In any case, it’s always better to have too much backing line than not enough, so it’s a good idea to err on the side of caution and spool up a little extra.

How to Choose the Right Fly Fishing Backing Line?

Consider the Fish Species: The type of fish you are targeting should determine the backing line you choose. Bigger fish species require a stronger backing line that can withstand their strength and speed.

Fishing Conditions: The location and fishing conditions should also dictate your choice of backing line. For example, if you are fishing in saltwater, you’ll need a backing line that is resistant to corrosion and can withstand the saltwater environment.

Diameter and Strength: The diameter and strength of the backing line should match the weight of the fly line. A thicker backing line is required for heavier fly lines to prevent the backing line from breaking under pressure.

Material: The material of the backing line also matters. Some materials are more durable and abrasion-resistant, while others are lighter and offer better sensitivity. You should choose a material that suits your fishing needs.

Consider the Type of Fishing You Will Be Doing

When choosing a fly fishing backing line, it’s important to consider the type of fishing you will be doing. If you’re planning on targeting larger species such as salmon or tarpon, a thicker and stronger backing line will be required to handle the fight.

Water type is also important to consider. If you’ll be fishing in saltwater, a backing line with higher resistance to corrosion is necessary.

Line weight is another factor to consider. The backing line should be able to support the weight of the fly line and the fish you are targeting. A lighter line may not be able to provide enough support, while a heavier line may add unnecessary weight and bulk to your setup.

Personal preference is also an important factor to consider. Some anglers may prefer a certain color or texture of the backing line, while others may prioritize the line’s strength and durability.

Choose the Right Diameter and Strength

Strength	Diameter	Usage
Light	0.25mm – 0.40mm	Perfect for catching smaller fish species such as crappie, sunfish, or trout.
Medium	0.45mm – 0.70mm	The most versatile option. Works for most freshwater fish, including bass, walleye, or catfish.
Heavy	0.80mm – 1.20mm	Designed for larger, stronger fish species such as salmon, pike, or musky.

Choosing the right fishing line for your next angling trip can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to fishing. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a fishing line is its diameter and strength.

Diameter refers to the thickness of the line, measured in millimeters. A thicker line has more mass and is therefore stronger, but it is also more visible to fish and can reduce your chances of getting a bite. A thinner line, on the other hand, is less visible to fish but may not be strong enough to handle larger or stronger fish.

Strength refers to the amount of weight a fishing line can hold before it breaks, measured in pounds. The stronger the line, the more weight it can handle. However, a line that is too strong may not have enough give to absorb the shock of a fish pulling on it, which can cause it to break or the hook to come loose.

By understanding the diameter and strength of fishing lines, you can choose the right one for your specific needs and increase your chances of success on your next fishing trip.

How to Install Fly Fishing Backing Line?

If you’re a beginner fly angler, you might be wondering how to install fly fishing backing line onto your fly reel. The backing line is an essential component of your setup because it fills the reel spool and helps you retrieve your line more easily.

The first step to installing the backing line is to attach the arbor knot to the reel spool. Make sure to choose a backing line with enough capacity to fill the spool to the right diameter. Once the knot is secure, you can start spooling the backing line onto the reel.

Use your thumb to apply gentle pressure to the backing line as you wind it onto the spool. This will prevent the line from tangling and ensure that it is evenly distributed. If you notice any twists or knots in the line, take a few moments to straighten it out before continuing.

Once the backing line is fully spooled, attach the fly line to the backing using a nail knot or loop-to-loop connection. Make sure to choose a fly line that is compatible with your backing line in terms of diameter and strength. When the connection is secure, you’re ready to hit the water and start casting!

Attach the Backing Line to the Reel Spool

The first step to installing the backing line is to attach it to the reel spool. To do this, you’ll need to tie an arbor knot that will hold the line in place. Start by threading the backing line through the spool’s arbor hole.

Next, tie a simple overhand knot in the tag end of the backing line. Then, tie a second overhand knot in the tag end using the standing line. Make sure to tighten both knots so that they are snug against the spool.

Finally, pull the standing line to slide the knots up against the spool. This will create a loop in the backing line that is attached to the spool. Trim any excess line from the tag end, and your backing line is now securely attached to the reel spool.

Frequently Asked Questions