Fly fishing is as much about precision as it is about patience. But before I learned that, I faced a major problem my fly fishing backing kept failing at the worst moments. Whether the backing snapped during a tough fight or tangled in the reel, this collapse cost me valuable catches. I knew it was time to stop guessing and finally choose the right weight for my fly fishing backing. After thorough research and hands-on testing, I found the solution that worked for me and could work for you. Let’s see below in the Article.
How I Finally Choose the Best Weight and Type of Backing
I took a systematic approach to solving the problem. I wanted to choose the best weight for my fly fishing backing based on where and what I was fishing for. Here’s how I did it and how you can too.
Step 1: Understand Your Target Fish
The first step is identifying your target species and their typical behavior:
- Trout: For freshwater trout fishing, a 20-pound Dacron backing is often sufficient. Trout runs are typically not long enough to require extremely heavy backing.
- Steelhead and Salmon: These fish are strong and can make long runs. I upgraded to a 30-pound backing for Steelhead, giving me more confidence.
- Saltwater Fish (Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon): Saltwater fish are powerful and fast. Here, 30-pound to 50-pound gel-spun backing is a must. Gel-spun gives you higher strength with less bulk, allowing you to pack 200-300 yards on your reel.
Step 2: Consider the Length of Backing
Different environments and fish require different lengths of backing:
- Freshwater (Trout): 100 yards of 20-pound backing usually covers you.
- Steelhead and Salmon: 150-200 yards of 30-pound backing is safer.
- Saltwater: Aim for at least 250 yards of 30-pound gel-spun backing for bonefish or permit. For tarpon, 300 yards of 50-pound backing is ideal.
Step 3: Choose the Right Material
The backing material matters as much as the weight. The two main types are:
- Dacron: Affordable, durable, and reliable for freshwater applications. It’s thicker, so you’re limited on how much you can spool.
- Gel-Spun (Spectra or Dyneema): Thinner and stronger than Dacron. You can fit more on your reel, making it perfect for saltwater or big game fish.
Step 4: Match Backing to Reel Capacity
Check your reel’s specs. Due to its thinner diameter, a reel rated for 200 yards of 20-pound Dacron may hold 300 yards of 30-pound gel-spun. Overloading or underloading the reel can lead to tangles and jams.
Step 5: Testing in the Real World
Armed with this knowledge, I upgraded my setup:
- Trout Setup: 100 yards of 20-pound Dacron backing.
- Steelhead Setup: 200 yards of 30-pound Dacron backing.
- Bonefish Setup: 250 yards of 30-pound gel-spun backing.
I field-tested these setups, and the difference was night and day. No more break-offs, no more running out of backing, no more frustration. The right backing gave me the confidence to fight fish knowing my gear wouldn’t fail.
How much backing is on a saltwater fly reel?
When preparing your saltwater fly reel, the amount of backing you use can vary based on several factors. Here’s a general guide to get you started:
- Reel Size: Most saltwater fly reels are designed to hold large backing. For example, a standard size might accommodate around 200 to 300 yards of 30-pound-test Dacron backing.
- Target Species: The size and power of your target fish will influence how much backing you need. Larger species like tarpon or permit that make long runs require more backing, often closer to the 300-yard range or even more.
- Fishing Location: Open-water fishing, where fish have the space to run, demands more backing. In contrast, fishing in flats or reefs might require slightly less backing.
- Line Capacity: Check your reel’s line capacity specifications to ensure you don’t overfill it. The manufacturer’s recommendations are a good starting point.
- Backing Material: The type of backing material can also affect the amount you need. For example, gel-spun polyethylene backing is thinner and allows more lines to be spooled than traditional Dacron backing. Remember, it’s always better to have a bit more backing than you think you’ll need, just in case you hook that trophy fish.
Conclusion: Best Weight for Fishing Backing
Choosing the right weight for your fly fishing backing isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential. The backing is your last line of defense when a fish runs. Get it wrong, and you’ll pay the price. Get it right, and you’ll experience fewer break-offs, fewer lost fish, and more moments to remember.
Stop guessing, start planning, and give your backing the attention it deserves. Your next trophy catch might depend on it.
User Queries
Typically, 50-100 yards of backing is recommended, depending on the reel’s capacity and the type of fishing.
For small streams, minimal backing is needed since fish won’t run far. Around 50 yards suffice.
Check the reel’s specifications or test-fit the backing and fly line to ensure proper fit.
To determine how much backing to put on your reel:
Check the Reel’s Capacity: Look at the reel specifications, which typically list the backing capacity based on line weight.
Test Fit: Spool the backing first, then the fly line, and adjust until the reel is comfortably filled without overloading.
Leave Space: Ensure there’s enough room for the fly line and avoid filling the reel too close to the rim to prevent tangles.
Consider Fishing Conditions: Use more backing for larger fish or deeper waters, typically 50-150 yards.
Attach Backing to the Reel: Tie the backing to the reel arbor using an arbor knot.
Spool Backing Evenly: Use a reel spooling station or have someone hold the backing spool to maintain tension.
Fill to Proper Capacity: Wind the backing evenly across the reel, leaving room for the fly line.
Connect Backing to Fly Line: Use a strong knot, like a nail knot or loop-to-loop connection.
Check Tension: Ensure the backing is tightly wound to avoid loose loops.
Choose 5X for smaller flies (size 16-22) and delicate presentations, ideal for wary fish. Use 4X for larger flies (size 12-16) and when targeting stronger fish or fishing in rougher conditions.