Rio XS Skagit Flight SHD Fly Line 700gr

# **How to Choose the Rio XS Skagit Flight SHD Fly Line 700gr**

Choosing the right fly line is crucial for successful spey or skagit casting, especially when targeting large fish like steelhead or salmon. The **Rio XS Skagit Flight SHD Fly Line 700gr** is designed for advanced anglers who demand precision, distance, and control in their casts. In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when selecting this line and how it can enhance your fishing experience.

## **Understanding the Rio XS Skagit Flight SHD Fly Line**

The **Rio XS Skagit Flight SHD (Short Head Design) Fly Line** is engineered for short, powerful casts in tight spaces. The **700gr** version is ideal for heavier rods (typically 12’6” to 14’ rods) and is optimized for big flies and sinking tips. Here’s what makes it stand out:

– **Short Head Design (SHD)** – At just 23 feet, the compact head allows for quick loading and efficient casting with minimal backcast room.
– **High-Density Core** – Provides superior turnover power for large flies and heavy sink tips.
– **Durable Coating** – Rio’s advanced polymer ensures longevity and smooth shooting through the guides.
– **Optimized for Sink Tips** – Works exceptionally well with T-8 to T-14 sinking tips, making it perfect for deep-water presentations.

## **Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the 700gr Model**

### **1. Rod Compatibility**
The **700gr** version is designed for **longer two-handed rods (12’6” to 14’)** with fast or medium-fast actions. Before purchasing, ensure your rod’s recommended grain window matches this weight. Overlining or underlining can negatively affect casting performance.

### **2. Casting Style & Fishing Conditions**
– **Skagit Casting:** If you prefer short, powerful casts with minimal backcast space, this line is perfect.
– **Heavy Sink Tips:** The 700gr version excels when paired with fast-sinking tips (T-11, T-14) for deep runs.
– **Big Flies & Windy Conditions:** The high grain weight helps punch through wind and turn over bulky intruder-style flies.

### **3. Sink Tip Pairings**
The **XS Skagit Flight SHD** is optimized for **sinking tips** rather than floating polyleaders. Ideal pairings include:
– **T-8 (8 grains per foot)** – Moderate sink rate for medium-depth runs.
– **T-11/T-14 (11-14 grains per foot)** – Fast sink for deep pools and strong currents.

### **4. Fishing Applications**
This line is best suited for:
– **Winter Steelhead** – Deep, slow-moving water where a fast-sinking line is essential.
– **Atlantic Salmon** – Heavy flows where a quick-sinking presentation is needed.
– **Large Trout (with heavy streamers)** – When fishing deep pools with bulky flies.

## **Why Choose the Rio XS Skagit Flight SHD 700gr?**
– **Efficiency in Tight Spots** – The short head allows for quick loading in confined areas.
– **Superior Turnover Power** – Handles large flies and heavy tips with ease.
– **Durability & Performance** – Rio’s high-quality construction ensures long-term reliability.

## **Final Thoughts**
If you’re an advanced angler targeting big fish in challenging conditions, the **Rio XS Skagit Flight SHD 700gr** is an excellent choice. Its short head design, high-density core, and compatibility with heavy sink tips make it a powerhouse for spey and skagit casting.

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**Tight lines!** 🎣