# **How to Choose Backing Line for Fly Fishing: 20lb Test, 100 Yards**
Fly fishing is an art that requires precision, patience, and the right gear. While much attention is given to rods, reels, and fly lines, the **backing line** is often overlooked—yet it plays a crucial role in landing big fish. If you’re looking for a reliable **20lb test, 100-yard backing line**, this guide will help you make an informed choice.
## **What Is Backing Line?**
Backing line is a thin, strong line that connects your fly reel to the fly line. Its primary purposes are:
1. **Providing Extra Line Capacity** – When a strong fish makes a long run, the backing ensures you don’t run out of line.
2. **Preventing Slippage** – It helps anchor the fly line to the reel, preventing it from spinning loosely.
3. **Absorbing Shock** – High-quality backing can absorb sudden surges from aggressive fish.
For **20lb test, 100-yard backing**, you need a balance of strength, durability, and smooth performance.
## **Key Factors When Choosing a 20lb Backing Line**
### **1. Material: Dacron vs. Gel-Spun Polyethylene (GSP)**
– **Dacron (Polyester)** – The traditional choice, known for its durability and moderate stretch. It’s affordable and works well for most freshwater applications.
– **Gel-Spun Polyethylene (GSP)** – Thinner and stronger than Dacron, making it ideal for saltwater or large fish like tarpon and salmon. However, it’s more expensive and can be slippery on the reel.
**For general freshwater fly fishing (trout, bass, pike), Dacron is a solid choice. For saltwater or heavy-duty fishing, GSP is superior.**
### **2. Breaking Strength & Diameter**
A **20lb test backing** is versatile—strong enough for big fish but not overly bulky. Check the **diameter**:
– **Dacron (20lb):** ~0.018″ – 0.020″
– **GSP (20lb):** ~0.010″ – 0.012″
Thinner lines (like GSP) allow more yardage on the reel, but Dacron offers better knot security.
### **3. Length: Why 100 Yards?**
– **Freshwater Fishing:** 50-100 yards is usually sufficient for trout and bass.
– **Saltwater/Big Game:** 150+ yards may be needed for fast-running fish.
A **100-yard spool of 20lb backing** is a great middle ground—enough for most situations without overloading your reel.
### **4. Color & Visibility**
Brightly colored backing (yellow, orange, or green) helps you track line movement when a fish runs. Some anglers prefer muted colors for stealth, but visibility is usually more important.
### **5. Brand Reliability: Why Choose KyleBooker?**
At **KyleBooker**, we engineer our backing lines for maximum performance:
– **High-Quality Dacron & GSP Options** – Smooth, abrasion-resistant, and UV-protected.
– **Consistent Diameter & Strength** – No weak spots or unexpected breaks.
– **Precision Wound for Tangle-Free Use** – Ensures smooth casting and retrieval.
## **How to Spool Backing Line Properly**
1. **Secure the Backing to the Reel Arbor** – Use an arbor knot or a loop connection.
2. **Wind Tightly & Evenly** – Avoid loose wraps that can cause tangles.
3. **Leave Room for Fly Line** – Typically, 100 yards of 20lb backing leaves enough space for a standard fly line (WF or DT).
## **Final Thoughts**
Choosing the right **20lb test, 100-yard backing line** depends on your fishing style and target species. **Dacron** is excellent for most freshwater applications, while **GSP** excels in saltwater or extreme conditions.
For top-tier performance, trust **KyleBooker’s premium backing lines**—designed to handle the toughest fights while maintaining smooth, reliable performance.
**Upgrade your setup today and never lose a trophy fish to weak backing again!**
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