How to Measure Line Weight for Your Fly Rod
- 1). Read the label to determine the line weight and type. The label will have several letters followed by a number and another letter. All of the separations are indicated by a dash. The number indicates the line weight. The first letters are either "WF" for weight-forward, "DT" for double taper or "SH" for shooting.
- 2). Cast the line to determine the weight if a label is not available. This requires experience and a good feel for your rod. Heavy lines will over-load the rod and light lines will under-load the rod. The line that matches the rod weight will make smooth transitions on the forward and back casts.
- 3). Cast the rod to determine the line style if a label is not present. A double taper line will be the same diameter on each end and it is soft when compared to a weight-forward or shooting head. The weight-forward line has a thick diameter on the front and it gradually tapers into a running line. The shooting head has all of the weight on the front and it quickly transitions into a thin running line.
- 4). Compare the diameter of the line against another fly line of which you know the weight. The diameter is difficult to discern between lines, but you will be able to make a relatively close guess. The difference between a 5- and 6-weight line is minute to the eye, but the difference between a 5- and 8-weight line is obvious.
- 5). Take the fly line to a fly shop for an expert opinion. The fly shop owner or employee will cast the line and help you determine the weight and line type. They may also help you gain a better understanding of your equipment and how it works.
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