Scientific Anglers Skagit Float Fly Line
Jeff Smith The Scientific Anglers Skagit Float Fly Line is a specialized fly line designed for Skagit casting, a technique primarily used in spey and switch rod fishing for targeting large fish, especially steelhead and salmon, in big rivers. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and uses:
Key Features:
1. Skagit-Specific Design
– Optimized for short, powerful casts with heavy flies and sink tips.
– Features a short, heavy head (typically 20–30 feet) for quick loading of spey/switch rods.
2. Floating Line
– The float version keeps the line on the surface, making it ideal for pairing with sink tips (e.g., T-8, T-11, T-14) to control depth.
3. Weight Forward (WF) System
– Aggressive front taper for turning over large flies (intruders, leeches) and sink tips.
– Smooth running line for easy mending and line control.
4. Durable Coating
– Scientific Anglers uses a slick, low-friction coating for longevity and smooth shooting.
5. Compatibility
– Works best with spey rods (11–15 ft) or switch rods (10–12 ft).
– Matches grain weights to rod specifications (e.g., 450gr for 12’6” 7wt spey rod).
Best Uses:
– Big River Fishing – Ideal for fast, deep water where distance and power are needed.
– Winter Steelhead & Salmon – Handles heavy sink tips and large flies effectively.
– Windy Conditions – The short head cuts through wind better than traditional Scandi lines.
Alternatives & Comparisons:
– RIO Skagit Max – Similar design, slightly different taper.
– Airflo Skagit Compact – More compact head, good for tighter spaces.
– Scandi Lines – Better for lighter presentations (not as powerful for heavy tips).
Final Verdict:
If you’re spey casting with sink tips and big flies in heavy water, the SA Skagit Float is an excellent choice. It loads rods quickly and delivers brute-force casting power.
Would you like recommendations on grain weight for your rod setup?