Top Fly Line Brands: Casting Excellence Guaranteed

Fly fishing is a beloved pastime for many anglers, and having the right equipment can significantly enhance the experience. Among the essential gear, fly lines play a crucial role in casting and controlling the fly accurately. With numerous brands available in the market, choosing the best fly line can greatly impact your success and enjoyment on the water. In this article, we will explore some of the top brands renowned for producing high-quality fly lines that cater to both beginners and seasoned fishermen alike. Join us below as we highlight the best brands for fly line and what makes them stand out.

Illustration of fly line

Best brands of fly line in 2025

Scientific Anglers

Scientific Anglers is a pioneering brand in the fly fishing industry, renowned for its innovative and high-performance fly lines. Since its inception in 1945, the company has revolutionized fly-line production, introducing groundbreaking technologies such as polymer-coated fly lines, the first modern floating fly line (Air Cel in 1954), and sinking fly lines (Wet Cel in the 1960s). Their advancements include the use of powdered tungsten and silicone for improved performance and environmental safety. The Amplitude Textured Fly Line, launched in the early 2000s, features a unique diamond-shaped pattern that reduces friction, allowing lines to float higher, shoot farther, and last longer. Scientific Anglers continues to innovate, recently introducing eco-friendly paperboard spools and the Regulator spool for better line management.

Rio Products

Rio Products is a renowned brand in the fly fishing industry, particularly celebrated for its high-quality fly lines. The company, which began selling fly lines in 1994, has consistently innovated in product development, as seen in their detailed manufacturing process highlighted in a 2023 video. Rio Products' commitment to quality and innovation has contributed to the growth of the fly fishing equipment market, which was valued at USD 1200 million in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 2000 million by 2031, growing at a 5.8% CAGR. The brand's products are part of a larger market where traditional in-store sales still dominate, accounting for 83.3% of total sales, but online sales are increasingly significant. Rio Products' contribution to the industry aligns with the rising popularity of fly fishing, especially among millennials and Generation Z.

Airflo

Airflo is renowned as one of the best producers of fly lines, distinguished by its innovative use of polyurethane (PU) technology, which replaces traditional PVC, making their lines environmentally sustainable and recyclable. Founded in 1978, Airflo has pioneered several industry-firsts, including the use of tungsten, low-stretch cores, and welded loops. The company's lines are highly regarded for their performance, durability, and resistance to UV light, DEET, and sunscreen. Following its acquisition by Mayfly Outdoors in 2019, Airflo has expanded its presence in key markets, particularly in the U.S., with a focus on floating trout lines and other specialized lines. Airflo's commitment to innovation and quality has earned it a leading position in the global fly fishing industry.

Cortland

Cortland Line Company, with over 100 years of experience, is a leading innovator in the production of fly lines and braided fishing lines. Known for their advanced coatings and line technology, Cortland offers high-performance freshwater and saltwater fly lines, including the popular Euro Nymph and Trout series. Their Competition Nymph rod series, introduced in 2013, has been praised for its quality and affordability, with a price point of $250 MSRP, significantly lower than most tight-line offerings starting at $700 or more. Under the direction of President John Wilson since 2015, Cortland has continued to enhance its product line, incorporating modern materials like PVC, nylon, and Dacron. The company, based in Cortland, NY, and with 38 employees, generates an estimated annual revenue of $6.9 million and has seen a 9% growth in employee count.

Orvis

Orvis, founded in 1856 by Charles F. Orvis, is a renowned brand in the fly fishing industry, particularly celebrated for its high-quality fly lines. The Orvis Hydros Trout fly line, for example, is highly versatile, designed to stay clean, cast easily, and mend well, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Orvis is a key player in the global fly fishing apparel and accessories market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2024 to 2030. The company's products, including its fly lines, contribute significantly to the market, with fly fishing gear accounting for 77.2% of the global revenue in 2023. Orvis's strong presence is also highlighted by its dominance in the North American market, where it is part of a region that held a 46.4% share in 2023.

Sage

Sage, founded in 1980 by legendary rod designer Don Green, is renowned as one of the best producers of fly fishing gear, particularly fly rods. The company, initially known as Winslow Rod Company, has grown from six employees and 1,500 square feet of manufacturing space to 175 employees and a 30,000 square foot facility on Bainbridge Island. Sage introduced the first series of fly rods for saltwater anglers in 1986 with the RPLX fly rods, which quickly became the standard for modern saltwater angling. By the early 1990s, Sage had secured its position as the number one fly rod company in the world, with a distribution network in over 30 countries and a US dealer network of about 450 dealers. Sage's commitment to innovation and quality has made its products a favorite among professional anglers and enthusiasts alike. For more about Sage's outstanding fly fishing gear, visit their official brand page.

Hardy

Hardy, a renowned brand since 1872, is celebrated for crafting top-quality fly gear, including fly rods and reels, in Alnwick, England. Known for their innovative freshwater and saltwater reels, Hardy blends modern design with cutting-edge performance. Their products are designed for anglers who demand the very best, reflecting a rich heritage and a commitment to advancing fly fishing technology. Hardy's fly rods are particularly praised for their accuracy and delicacy, especially in dry fly and wet fly rigs. With a history spanning over 150 years, Hardy remains a premier choice for fly fishing enthusiasts. Discover more about their impressive collection of fly rods.

Monic

Monic Fly Lines, established in 1994, is a leading producer of high-performance, eco-friendly fly lines, renowned for their innovative, patented coating technologies and environmentally sustainable materials. Unlike traditional PVC-based lines, Monic lines are 100% PVC-free, eliminating the use of volatile and harmful chemicals. This shift in technology ensures the lines do not crack over time, maintaining their durability and performance longevity. With 30 years of research and development, Monic has perfected clear floating lines and other products that offer exceptional floating characteristics, low memory, and industry-leading taper constructions. Handmade in Boulder, Colorado, Monic lines are engineered to deliver accurate casting and stealthy presentations for anglers worldwide. Discover more about their innovative product offerings on their official website.

Snowbee

Snowbee, a renowned British company established in 1978, is highly regarded for its innovative and award-winning fly fishing tackle, particularly its fly lines. The Snowbee XS-Plus Thistledown2 fly line stands out for its versatility, designed to perform well with widely varying rod weights, such as 2-5 weight and 5-7 weight variants. This line features Snowbee's Nano-Tec coating, which provides a remarkably smooth surface, reducing friction and enhancing casting performance. Snowbee's products are internationally recognized, and the company is a key player in the global fly fishing apparel and accessories market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2024 to 2030.

Loop Fly Lines

Loop Fly Lines, such as the Mega High-Speed fly line, are highly regarded for their performance and durability. This line loads the rod quickly, requiring only 2-3 false casts for short to medium casts, and handles big flies and windy conditions effectively. It is also notable for its affordability, priced at just £20, and its cold saltwater rating. The line's aggressive front taper and two-tone design make it ideal for coaching and casting in various conditions. Additionally, it has shown remarkable longevity, with no micro-cracks or need for re-welding the loop even after extensive use. For a comprehensive review, you can read Mega High-Speed Fly Line Product Testing Review.