I'll be using this rod from a drift boat in Montana. It's paired with a Lamson reel rated for a 6 weight rod. I already have one spool of Kelly Gallop Streamer Max Long. I'm looking for a line with a more universal taper to throw small streamers, nymphs, hoppers, and the occasional Griffith's gnat. I know, a tall order. But I'm hoping for a more universal taper that I can add weight to if needed.



My blaqnk should be here any day now. I have my power wrapper all set up, all my rod building components gathered, plus tools, epoxy, brushes, cork sealer, etc. I even have the thread carriage dialed in to just the right tension. I did some practice winds today, and applied the cork sealer to the handle. I want to build this rod. And I want it perfectly functional, withstealth built in, rather than bling. I'm still decidingthou, do I want to use my silk thread, or my Fujithread? Decisions, decisions.

Tight Lies and frisky fish

RJF

I don't have any experience with Airflow lines, but on the several Affinity X rods I have, the best all around line I have found is the Cortland Trout Boss double taper. The Rio Grand and Gold also worked well, but to me, the DT Trout Boss works the best for all around situations.

Robert,
I was born and raised in Montana and certainly appreciate your desire.

However, if I were you, I would speak with a few drift boat guides for the particular bodies of water you fish to drift, and ask them for their advice.

They see many many different folks using many many different setups and lines in addition to folks using equipment provided by the guides. So, they deal with this very situation on a daily basis and they will absolutely know the best answer to your question.

Will you be drifting the Missouri, the Yellowstone or some other waters?

I avoid recommending a line to a fly caster until I watch him/her cast. I believe this habit has spared me and the person seeking a recommendation a fair amount of grief.

That is a great question and the correct one to ask. I think Herb L would have the best answer for you. I would try the different ones that I have and try to figure out what head lengths and weights work best. The right line can make it the "Magic Rod". I also would not restrict it to a certain brand, but rather whatever works best.