H2H,

Why is it unfortunate that there is some grace in casting a Skagit system line? I'm not trying to bash those lines. I probably have several that are similar to Ed's lines, if not actually equivalent. I wouldn't bash Ed's lines or his style even if I didn't like it, as he's a friend of mine. I think you'd agree, that for winter steelhead fishing, the greater the deviation from mono and lead, the greater the compromise that we make in terms of effectiveness. Ed's lines and style come closer to the effectiveness of drift gear, but I don't know anyone who thinks it's as effective as drift gear. The reason I've shied away from short heads and very thin running lines is because those types of lines result in making more compromise than I care to. I would probably do it if it was the only way I could hook a winter fish, but I'm able to achieve some success with lines that are more satisfying - for me - to use. If I actually needed to catch a steelhead, knowing what I know now, I think I'd just pick up a spinning rod, because that style of fishing appears to make the most effective presentation of bait or lure and results in the most hookups.

3 to 3.5X, eh? Hmmm, the winter line I'm using now almost fits that definition, I think. I'll have to measure it some time.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.