The Cortland – Striped Bass Floating Fly Line is a specialized fly line designed for targeting striped bass and other saltwater species in a variety of conditions. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Features:
1. Floating Design – Ideal for topwater flies (poppers, sliders, gurglers) and shallow-water presentations.
2. Weight Forward (WF) Taper – Helps with quick loading and long casts, crucial for large flies and windy conditions.
3. Saltwater-Resistant Coating – Durable, slick coating to withstand abrasive conditions and resist cracking.
4. Bright Color (Often Orange or Yellow) – High visibility in low-light conditions (dawn/dusk, cloudy days).
5. 30-40 lb Core – Strong enough to handle big stripers and abrasion from structure.
Best Uses:
– Surf Fishing – Works well when casting from shore or wading.
– Boat Fishing – Great for sight-fishing over flats or near structure.
– Estuaries & Backwaters – Effective in skinny water where stripers chase baitfish.
Recommended Line Weights:
– 8-10 wt (for smaller stripers, schoolies, and light setups)
– 11-12 wt (for larger stripers, heavy flies, and windy conditions)
Pros:
✔ Excellent turnover for bulky flies
✔ Smooth shooting ability
✔ Durable for saltwater use
Cons:
✖ May require frequent cleaning in saltwater to maintain performance
✖ Not ideal for deep presentations (consider a sinking line for deeper water)
Alternatives:
– Scientific Anglers Amplitude Striped Bass (Floating or Sink-Tip)
– Rio Outbound Striper (Floating or Intermediate)
– Airflo Super-Dri Striped Bass
Final Verdict:
If you’re primarily fishing topwater or shallow water for stripers, this is a solid choice. Pair it with a 9-11 wt rod and a 9-12 ft leader (20-40 lb fluorocarbon) for best results.
Would you like recommendations for leaders or flies to pair with this line?