10 Best Floating Fly Line 2026 in the United States

The RIO Premier Gold Fly Line is designed for fly fishers looking for versatility and control in their casting. With a line weight of WF6F and a length of 90 feet, it's suitable for a wide range of fishing situations, making it particularly appealing for those targeting trout. The long head and back taper allow for better line control and stability, which is especially useful for casting at longer distances or during mending. The line’s unique front taper promotes excellent presentation for flies ranging from size #22 to #2, accommodating different fishing techniques.

One of the standout features is RIO’s MaxFloat tip technology, which ensures the line floats higher than many competitors, enhancing performance on the water. The SlickCast coating minimizes friction, allowing for smoother casts and reducing effort when retrieving lines. Additionally, the dual-tone marking helps anglers quickly locate the sweet spot for effective casting.

This line may not be the best fit for absolute beginners, as its features can be overwhelming at first. Also, the price point might be higher than some entry-level options, which could deter novice anglers who are just starting out in fly fishing. This line serves as a solid option for intermediate and advanced anglers seeking a reliable and high-performing fly line that excels in various situations.

The RIO Premier Gold Fly Line is a well-regarded choice for trout fishing, especially for those who want a versatile fly line capable of handling a wide range of fly sizes from very small (#22) to quite large (#2). Its line weight of WF5F fits medium weight rods, making it a favorite for many anglers. The long head and back taper design give you excellent control over your cast, whether you're close to the target or casting at longer distances. This helps in both accurate casting and easy mending of the line on the water. The line length of 90 feet is standard and suitable for most freshwater fly fishing situations. The ConnectCore material in the core adds strength without making the line heavy or stiff.

For coating, RIO uses MaxFloat tip technology which keeps the front part of the line floating high, helping dry flies stay on the surface, and SlickCast coating reduces friction, meaning the line shoots out smoothly from the rod and lasts longer. The added features like welded loops at both ends make rigging quick and hassle-free. The dual-tone color marking aids in spotting the sweet spot for casting, which is helpful for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Some anglers might find the price a bit higher than basic lines, and while it excels for trout and similar species, it might not be the best fit if you fish in heavily vegetated waters or need a super-heavy line for big fish. This fly line provides excellent all-around performance with thoughtful design and durable materials, making it a solid choice for both novices and seasoned trout anglers seeking precision and ease in their casting.

The Rio Elite Gold Fly Line is designed to be an all-around performer for fly fishing enthusiasts. With a line weight of WF5F, it’s versatile and can handle a wide range of fly sizes from #2 to #22, making it suitable for various fishing situations. The 90ft length is ample for long casts, which is enhanced by its long head and back taper design for better loop stability and line control. This makes it a great choice for both river and lake fishing where precision and distance are essential.

The core material, ConnectCore Plus, offers low-stretch performance, which translates to improved sensitivity and hook-setting power. Additionally, the MaxFloat Tip technology ensures the line floats high on the water, minimizing drag and improving presentation. The SlickCast coating is another highlight, providing a very smooth surface that reduces friction for longer casts and enhanced durability. However, while the line marking systems like Surefire and Easyrid are convenient for measuring distances and identifying lines quickly, they might take a bit of getting used to for beginners.

The welded loops at both ends are very practical for fast and easy rigging. The Rio Elite Gold Fly Line is a high-quality, technical option for anglers looking for performance and versatility. It requires some familiarity with advanced features, so while it is not limited to experienced users, beginners might need a bit of practice to harness its full potential.