Intermediate line
Also called Intermediate sinking line, Slow-sinking line, Clear intermediate line
An intermediate line is a slow-sinking fly line that fishes just below the surface instead of floating high or dropping fast.
- Group
- Fly lines
- Category
- Gear & tackle
- Level
- Intermediate
- Water
- Saltwater
Last updated
What Intermediate line means
Intermediate lines are built to sink gradually and track subsurface. They are used when fish are feeding a foot or two down, or when chop and current make a floating line skate and drag.
In saltwater, they show up on flats edges, channels, and windy days when a floating line keeps getting pushed around. They are common for baitfish and shrimp patterns fished on a steady strip.
Some intermediate lines are clear to reduce line flash. They are not a substitute for a true sinking line when fish are holding deep or when you need a fast drop.
Why it matters on the water
A slow-sinking line keeps the fly tracking level during the retrieve. That helps when fish want a fly that stays in their lane instead of rising toward the surface every time the line tightens.
It also buys control in wind and chop. With the line under the surface, there is less bow and less surface grab, which makes it easier to stay connected and feel a take on a strip set.
Read next
- Floating lineA floating line is a fly line designed to ride on top of the water. It is the standard choice for dry flies, indicators, and many shallow nymph and streamer setups.
- Sink tipA sink tip is a fly line with a floating rear section and a sinking front section. It helps get flies down while keeping the cast and line control of a floating line.
- Sinking lineA sinking line is a fly line built to sink below the surface so you can fish deeper without adding as much weight.
- Strip setA strip set is a hook set made by pulling the fly line hard with the line hand while keeping the rod low, instead of lifting the rod tip.
More in Fly lines
From the Journal
- The Palometa Club Pre-Trip PlannerThis pre-trip planner & outfitting guide is your go-to resource for questions about your trip from now until you return home safely.
- Find the Right Fly Rod Weight - SaltwaterPart 2 of our Rod Breakdown focuses on Saltwater fly fishing. The 8wt rod is arguably the most common saltwater rig, providing a load of versatility for different species and techniques.
- Fly Fishing The Devils RiverFly Fishing The Devils River Author: Lawson Fish, Chase Ferguson & Garrett Davidson Photography By: Lawson Fish About The Devils River While its name is intriguing enough, The Devils River…
- Fly Fishing For Bass [The Essentials]FLY FISHING FOR BASS The Essentials Fly Fishing for Bass//The Essentials Fly Fishing for Largemouth Bass For anglers from California to Florida — and most definitely in Texas — the new year means largemouth bass fishing is just around the corner.