I picked up some nylon backing yesterday and got to thinking. Most I have seen is dacron. Is there any difference or advantages/disadvantages between the two?
I’m not an expert on this, but here’s my understanding. (Experts, please feel free to correct this if I have it wrong.)
Braided nylon is OK for backing. Monofilament nylon is not because it stretches too much and this can put pressure on your reel and damage it. I do not know why braiding stops this stretching.
Dacron has a longer life than nylon as it does not deteriorate from light exposure. I don’t have a clue what the life expectancy of braided nylon backing is, but I’m guessing it should last at least for the life of your fly line.
Experts, jump in!
[This message has been edited by oldfrat (edited 19 March 2006).]
Oldfrat has hit the nail on the head, mono will stretch and could crush your spool.
big brown,
Use anything you want, as long as it isn’t monofilament.
Allan
It is a braided nylon so I guess it will be O.K. I think this stuff has been on the shelf awhile but that’s all this store had. (no fly shops near by). I was hesitant to buy it but I pulled hard on it with pliers and it didn’t break so I think it’s allright.