Long Belly Lines

[Fruin]

I have only used spey lines with belly lengths of up to 65ft so far. I probably used to cast with larger loops when I used DT lines.
Anyway, my question is - is there a significant difference between the level of skill required to lift and cast 65ft, 75ft and 85ft+ belly lengths from the water?
I would like to purchase a long belly floating line for the Tay this summer, but I am hesitant in case I struggle with it.

[Fruin]

Thanks Graham,

In that case I have cast a line over 75ft. I had a shot with an Accelerator a couple of years ago and managed it fine. I never knew that it had an 80ft belly.

I think that a 75ft line will probably be adequate. I'm just hoping to add a few yards on to my cast without having to shoot much more line. I reckon if I can handle a 65ft sinker then I should manage a 75ft floater?
I may be starting a new job soon, so that can be my wee treat to myself ;D

[Fruin]

If trying a line of more than 75ft, does it pay to use a line rating lighter than the rod (ie a 9/10 line for a 10/11 rod)?

[Fruin]

Thanks again Graham.

Regarding the IG lines, is that a preference of yours (to up the line size for a 75ft belly), or, do you find most other experienced casters do the same?

[Fruin]

Graham,

Once again, thank you for your input.
I copied a few of the new standards from posts in the Speypages and other sources. Unfortunately, their still not universal until all the rod manufacturers produce rods that also work to these standards. Then of course, as you say, there are individual casting styles applying different casting strokes that will also flex the rod differently with the same line. All very confusing

I guess it's just a matter of trial and error to find the right lines for my own rods and casting style. It just gets so expensive when you pick the wrong lines. I suppose as long as it's almost the right line the casting style can be altered to suit. All part of the fun really ;D

[D-Loop]

Fruin,

My name is Tom Scanlon. I am a Leven regular and am normally around MacKinnon's 12-3 p.m. most Saturdays.

Last year I used one of the new Grandpseys, a #9/10 floater (58g head weight, 85 ft head length) with my 15' Norway #10/11. This was a good match which suited my style but others may feel the line is still too heavy.

As Graham says, the old Grandpspeys were way too heavy but Rio have now tried to address this with the newer versions.

I have now changed my rod for the 15' IG-six piece #11/12. The ideal head weight for this rod is 54g so, with a couple of feet of the #9/10 GS inside the rings it is a great match. I am very happy with this new rod/line combo.

I would also describe the 6-piece (fast) IG as a great casting rod and the Norway as a great fishing rod (solid, all-rounder, robust etc). If the IG is as dependable as the Norway then it will be a winner.

If you fancy having a chuck with the long-belly then let me know and we can arrange to meet,

Cheers,

Tom

[Fruin]

Tom,

Thanks for the kind offer.
My fishing is all booked up on the Tay for the rest of the month. I'll probably manage down the Leven on April 1st for a few hours.

We've surely met on the Leven before!

[D-Loop]

Fruin,

Most likely...

Maybe see you around on April fool's day.

Tight lines on the Tay.

Tom

[kercock]

Could you meet on a certain Tay beat,you have both fished ! it can be sorted ! !