Time for Some New Lines!

[luckydog]

I'd like to get gr. window recommendations for a couple of older mid 90's Sage 4 piece rods w/brown blanks. I've been using the original Rio Windcutter lines and the Launcher line from the Welches Fly Shop. These lines are worn out and its time to replace them with some modern stuff.

First off are the 7136-4and 8150-4, I'd like to get a recommendation for the gr. weights for Airflo Compact Scandi heads for these rod.

Next are the 9140-4, and 10150-4. I would like to use Skagit heads on these rods. Not sure of the gr. windows for these rods or whether I should go with a compact skagit head. These rods will see use in possibly windy conditions on larger rivers using big flies.

Appreciate any suggestions!

Thanks
Peter

[Pete]

Hi Peter,

I have the 9140-4. My favorite line for that rod was a Rio DT Spey 9/10. I haven't really experimented too much with skagit lines on this rod, but for a starting point, I would try a 525 grain skagit flight. In my opinion, the rod has a soft middle and a 525 wouldn't overload it - my two cents. I know Kiene's has tons of lines to try out - I would recommend it.

As for the 7136-4, I know you noted a scandi head, but I've used and really enjoy the power spey in a 6/7. For pure floating line work with some light poly-leaders, you might like the set up. Just food for thought.

Anyway, happy shopping.

P

[dbrosier]

Airflo makes demonstration kits for both their Compact Skagit and their Compact Scandi line series. I know Kiene's has the Skagit kit. With a Driver's License, you can check out the whole kit, got down to the river and experiment.

Takes the guess work out before purchase.

[nor cal steelie]

Those are some sweet rods you got there Luckydog !!!

[luckydog]

Thanks for all the suggestions! I'll test out some lines and see which ones I like for each of these rods, maybe get some fining in while I'm at it

[bob pauli]

7136: Rio's Skagit 550 plus any tip

8150: Rio's Skagit 650 plus 5 or 10-foot cheater plus any tip

[TaylerW]

brownies!
im jealous.

check out flight heads

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

http://www.rioproducts.com/photos/file/2011%20Old%20Spey%20line%20%20recommendations.pdf

Link above is to Rio's recommendations for older/discontinued two-handed fly rods.

**Rio's recommendations for Skagit are a little lighter than we like so you can add 25 to 50 grains easily on to their numbers.

Scandi lines are always lighter than Skagit lines for the same rod.

[luckydog]

Thanks again, so many choices! I have enough different rods (Sages + Maxwell Tiger Eye and Scott 9140) so maybe getting a Rio kit might make some sense.

[Idaho steel]

Just out of curiosity...Why do you want to throw a compact scandi head on your 8150? Seems like a lot of rod for not much line. I like the Airflo Delta Long 8/9 or the Hardy Mach II #9. The CND GPS 7/8 is also very nice and gives the rod a somewhat "lighter" feel. 'Course this is only my opinion, since I live in big water country.--AJ

[luckydog]

Just out of curiosity...Why do you want to throw a compact scandi head on your 8150? Seems like a lot of rod for not much line. I like the Airflo Delta Long 8/9 or the Hardy Mach II #9. The CND GPS 7/8 is also very nice and gives the rod a somewhat "lighter" feel. 'Course this is only my opinion, since I live in big water country.--AJ

Agreed, I need longer lines/heads for the 8150 and 10150.