PHOENIX SILK LINES
Peter Elks appreciates the finer points of silk fly lines

Irrespective of modern technology, many synthetic fly-lines still fail to deliver the essential characteristics needed for precise presentation on pressured trout waters. Sought-after qualities in fly lines include thinner diameter, low memory and suppleness, as well as an ability to cast well in various temperatures and to last well over time.

Other desirable attributes include low flash and slick finish along with various taper selections and an ability to float or sink as required. Such qualities complement the mechanics of fly casting in terms of fly-rod responsiveness, minimal drag, ease of casting and line aerialising, subtle pick up and lay down, wind cheating, minimal shadowing, improved accuracy and reduced tangling.

The surprising news for many is that such qualities in fly lines do exist and are readily available. The lines are hand made of silk by Phoenix Lines in France along with an impressive range of fly fishing accessories (www.phoenixlines.com).

The silk is braided then repeatedly bathed in exotic oils and dried. These processes ensure permanent saturation and weight build-up, complementing the line’s unique abilities to either float or sink. A series of varnishes and hand rubbings follows, resulting in a somewhat textured yet permanently slick and supple exterior finish. The lines are then ready to fish straight out of the box.

The lines aerialise with complete ease, cast with extreme accuracy, roll cast superbly and fall to and pick up from water with delightful subtlety.

To ensure a line will last well over time, moisture must be removed after use and before storing or dressing. Suggested drying is performed by initially wiping the line with clean cloth then drying by open coiling or elongation. Dressings containing silicone should never be used as they are too efficient and trap moisture which in turn will rot a line.

Longevity of a silk fly-line is directly proportional to the angler’s ability to care for it and a lifespan of between three and five times greater than a synthetic line is not an unreasonable expectation.

Recommended line dressing is Red Label Mucilin—an initial supply accompanies the fly line from Phoenix. Dressed lines will float for approximately 5 hours in running water and slightly less on still water. Not dressing a tip or full line produces an intermediate sink tip, or full intermediate line.

Phoenix lines are made in colours of green or straw in weight forward and double taper formats. Double tapers can be reversed on the reel after 4-5 hours thus eliminating the need to stop for line drying and redressing.

Line tip diameters of 20-30% less than comparative synthetic lines, give Phoenix a decisive edge. Imagine casting a six-weight line with a tip diameter approaching that of a four-weight with no reduction in casting energy!

Silk lines are equally at home on cane rods or space-age equivalents. Silk and cane grew up together and were truly made for one another, but combining a silk line with a modern fly-rod transforms the rod into somewhat of a cannon.

“Living in the past” may be an unfortunate criticism of those still using silk fly lines. However, evaluation can not be made from an armchair or by viewing a line kept in the box. The Phoenix fly line is designed to fish with and when cast will provide one of the most pleasant surprises available in modern day fly fishing.

The present cost of a Phoenix double taper trout line is GBP119.00 plus post. Over a season, be the line used for its pleasing efficiencies or for the specific purpose of delicate presentations on demanding waters, it will outperform synthetic equivalents and more than justify every dollar paid.

Distributor for Australia & New Zeland is A.V. Young Split Bamboo Flyrods; Email avyoung@iinet.net.au