Jim Vincent’s Rio MainStream Trout Full Sink Fly Line is a budget-friendly sinking fly line designed for trout anglers who need an effective, no-frills option for getting flies deep in rivers and streams. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and intended use:
Key Features:
1. Full Sink Design:
– Sinks uniformly (no floating tip) to help reach deeper holding trout.
– Typically available in Type III (~3.5 ips sink rate) or Type V (~6 ips), ideal for moderate to fast currents.
2. Affordable Performance:
– Part of Rio’s MainStream series, offering quality at a lower price point compared to premium lines.
– Great for beginners or anglers who want a dedicated sinking line without breaking the bank.
3. Durable Coating:
– Features a smooth PVC coating for reliable sink performance and decent longevity.
– Not as slick or refined as Rio’s premium lines (like InTouch), but gets the job done.
4. Standard Weighting:
– True to weight (e.g., a 5-weight line matches standard 5-wt rods).
– 90-foot length (30-foot head) for versatility in casting and mending.
5. Versatile Use:
– Best for streamers, nymphs, and wet flies in rivers or lakes.
– Effective in pocket water, deep pools, or when trout are holding near the bottom.
Ideal Scenarios:
– Deep nymphing with indicators or Euro-style techniques.
– Streamer fishing in faster currents where a sink-tip line isn’t enough.
– Stillwaters when trout are deeper than a floating line can reach.
Limitations:
– Not as delicate or precise as a floating line for dry flies.
– Less advanced than Rio’s Premier or Gold Medal series in terms of taper refinement.
Alternatives to Consider:
– Rio InTouch Sink Tip (for partial sinking needs).
– Scientific Anglers SONAR Sink (for advanced taper options).
Final Verdict:
A solid, economical choice for anglers who need a full-sinking line to target trout in deeper water. If you’re on a budget or want a backup line for streamer/nymph fishing, the MainStream Full Sink delivers good value. For more technical fishing, consider upgrading to Rio’s higher-end sinking lines.
Would you like recommendations for specific sink rates (Type III vs. V) based on your fishing conditions?