Fly Line Memory and Stretching

ALL FLY LINES have memory — they “remember” the shape they are stored in, usually coils on a reel or on a storage spool. The reason is simple: most lines are made with nylon cores and PVC coatings, and both materials tend to hold and retain their shape. But memory in these materials is also temperature dependent, and the colder the line, the stiffer it will be, and the memory more tenacious.

As fly fishers, we know that to achieve maximum casting performance and to minimize tangling, lines should be as straight as possible. Lines made for fishing in cooler climates and waters, like trout specific lines, are made with softer coatings and cores to minimize memory in lower temperatures. Lines designed for use in tropical heat are usually made with harder, stiffer coatings and cores. Cool weather lines used in tropical heat will be very soft, shoot poorly and tangle badly. Tropical lines fished in cool weather will be quite stiff and will be difficult to straighten and will require repeated stretching if the line is returned to the reel for even a short period of storage. So, what is the best plan for optimizing line performance?

First, get the right line for your application. If you expect your steelhead line to work equally well for bonefish, you will be disappointed. If you take your tarpon line salmon fishing, you will spend more time fighting your line than fish.

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Source: Midcurrent.com; by Bruce Richards

Sage: Fly Fishing Casting Analyzer

Casting: you can get better ...
Fly fishing is gaining new scientific methods in polishing casting technics.
Have you been thinking about your cast recently?
Have you seen it from the other perspective?
The Sage come out with new device called "Casting analyzer".
What it does?


The Sage Casting Analyzer records the essential components of your fly cast-such as symmetry, arc, smoothness, and speed- and then compares that data to the cast of a Sage Expert.

Where It All Began
The Sage Casting Analyzer represents the culmination of years of diligent research. Noel Perkins, a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Michigan, initiated the project after rediscovering his love of fly fishing in 1998. Intrigued by the dynamics of the fly cast, he created a computer model using a rate gyro to measure rod rotation. As the project developed, Noel teamed up with Bruce Richards, an expert in the science of fly casting from Scientific Anglers. Together, Noel and Bruce created CastAnalysis LLC, and in 2004 they forged a partnership with Sage for the exclusive distribution of the world's first fly-casting analyzer. Sage and CastAnalysis then collaborated to create a new user-friendly program for Sage's specialty fly shops. Sage is dedicated to providing anglers with innovative tools that help perfect performance and promote the evolution of the sport. In short: We're proud to introduce the Sage Casting Analyzer.

Why Have Your Cast Analyzed
The Sage Casting Analyzer was born of a desire to help you perfect your cast, so you can focus on the fish. The first of its kind, the analyzer will provides anglers of all skill levels the opportunity to better understand the mechanics of their cast with immediate, quantifiable feedback. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can hone and tighten your delivery.

The Science Behind the Art
The Sage Casting Analyzer gathers scientific data via a rate gyroscope attached to the rod. When you make several false casts with a fixed length of line, the gyroscope relays data to a Palm Pilot, which allows for immediate review. The analyzer measures six separate components that are critical to a proper cast: peak speed, casting arc, smoothness ratio, deceleration, stop and rod load. As part of your detailed printed report, the analyzer also evaluates sub-categories, like creep, drift and symmetry.
Source: Sage