Look, I didn’t start this thread to argue with anybody. I merely pointed out that I bought a cheap fly line and that it seems to work well for me, and I thought that was interesting. If you’ll note, I said I own some expensive lines also (although I’ve never - and doubt that I will - pay $100 for one); they work well too. Y’all can use whatever line you want; my opinion is worth exactly what you paid for it (nothing). As with every product known to man, some people love it, some people hate it. For what it’s worth (again, nothing) here are two opinions on the Sharkskin lines from another board:
“I used a Sharkskin line and a Rio Bonefish line on my recent trip to Christmas Island. All I have to say is I won’t be using a Sharkskin line again…”
“I’ve never actually put one on my own rod. I have fished with a few buddies that had them on. That was enough to dissuade me from ever owning one. Marketing hype, extra coin, audible noise and finger wear. That about sums up my buddies experiences.”
I started fly fishing in 1960 when I was 13 and until 1998 I never knew a weight forward line existed. Never had a problem with the kind of fishing I did, but haven’t had a level line since. It just depends on what an angler want’s and is willing to spend. I will not spend a $100 on a line but I have bought one line that was close to $50 that I love. It is a bass taper line, but I can fish without it if i have to.I know cost’s are up and do not have a problem with the companies pricing, I just won’t pay it.
Someone please explain how good casters in the 60’s and 70’s were able to accurately lay out the entire length of a 100 foot fly line with the lines and equipment they had then?
Listening to most of the statements here, it should not have been possible because one needs a modern $80-$100 fly line to cast long.
They could because they were really good. Someone of the same abliity may be able to cast 120+ feet today with modern equipment. I can cast an entire fly line today, but I was doing well to cast half the line I had back in the 60’s.
Ah the passion one has regarding all things fly fishing. If the line you bought suits your purpose and you are happy with it, then that’s all that matters. Regardless of what you paid for it. And that would apply to any piece of fly fishing gear. And, I’m glad you did post your experience because there may be others who are looking for an alternative fly line and don’t have a lot of money to spend. So you did this board a service.
" The one handed fly casting distance record that they cite is 190 feet, held by Steve Rajeff and Rene Gillibert."
The original OP asked “what’s the difference, and how do line companies get away with charging $80 to $100 for a fly line?” Speaking for myself, I answered, yes there is a difference. I never said to go out and buy it. I remember the first Peach I did buy was like $39. I see it now on Amazon for $59…??? How did this happen? Up $20.!
The other lines that sold for $59. now $79. Is there a trend going on here LOL I am just saying all lines are going up in price, because wages are going up.
Sharkskin is still there and selling at the same price, maybe because some really do like it.
As mentioned earlier, if we all did the same thing, life would be boring.
I answered this question and was unjustly accused of putting someone down because of a miss read, and I have been put down by implying I am dumb enough to be taking in by the hype.
No hype, as I said before, it does all they claim it will. Do you need it, that is up to the individual. But there is a difference. Do you need the difference? Again up to the individual. I tried to offer some personal experience, but I am thinking it was never really a question.
Prairieschooner;
Anglerdave said it all and said it right! Good on ya Dave! Hang in there buddy don’t let the BS wear ya down!!
P.S. I also fish SA SharkSkin and after 3 years (Not Bad) they have worn down to what would now be the “Embossed” line! And yes most of my fish are caught with in 30 - 40 ft!
