Strip set
Also called strip strike
A 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.
- Group
- Retrieves & hook sets
- Category
- Technique & presentation
- Level
- Beginner
- Water
- Saltwater
Last updated
What Strip set means
In saltwater, the hook set starts with your line hand. The rod stays pointed at the fly, low and straight, and the line hand makes a firm strip to drive the hook.
After the strip, keep stripping until you feel steady weight, then let the fish pull line onto the reel or clear the line to the reel. A trout-style “lift set” often pulls the fly away or fails to penetrate because many saltwater hooks and bites need more direct pressure.
This comes up constantly with flats and inshore species that eat and spit fast, or that clamp down on a fly without turning. It also shows up with baitfish patterns and shrimp patterns that are being stripped back to you.
Why it matters on the water
A clean strip set keeps the fly moving forward and keeps pressure in a straight line. That helps the hook find purchase, especially with tougher mouths and larger hooks common in saltwater.
It also prevents the common miss where the rod lift yanks the fly up and away. Getting the set right buys time for the next steps, clearing loose line and getting the fish onto the reel without a slack moment.
Read next
- Fly lineThe fly line is the thick, weighted line that loads the fly rod and carries the cast. It connects the reel and backing to the leader.
- LeaderThe leader is the clear, tapered line between the fly line and the fly. It turns the fly over and gives you a clean, controlled presentation.
- StrippingStripping is retrieving fly line by pulling it in with your line hand. It’s used to move the fly, manage slack, and stay ready to set the hook.
- TippetTippet is the thin, level line tied to the end of your leader. It’s the section you cut back and replace as you change flies and re-tie knots.