Fly Line & Backing
Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sink 4 Fly Line. Can’t decide what to fish for? Our WetCel general-purpose sinking line is a simple, no-frills, weight-forward sinking fly line perfect for throwing nymphs and streamers to trout, bass, or panfish in streams, rivers, or lakes. It may not cost a lot, but that certainly doesn’t mean the WetCel won’t get the job done.
Scientific Anglers Spey Lite Scandi Integrated. Introducing our Spey Lite collection, and the Integrated Scandi Spey line. Designed for light double-handed duty and with a relatively long front taper for more delicate deliveries, the Scandi Lite is ideal for smaller streams and trout Spey applications.
Scientific Anglers Spey Lite Skagit Integrated. Introducing our Spey Lite collection, and the Integrated Skagit Spey line. Designed for light double-handed duty and with a short, powerful head, the Skagit Lite is ideal for smaller streams and trout Spey applications.
Scientific Anglers Amplitude Smooth Infinity Saltwater Fly Line - Black/Sand/Horizon
IFTD Best Of Show Winner 2020 - Saltwater Fly Line. The go-to line for all saltwater species. Made half size heavy turns over large flies on windy days.
Scientific Anglers Amplitude Smooth Infinity Salt Fly Line. The go-to line for all saltwater species. Made half size heavy turns over large flies on windy days.
Scientific Anglers Amplitude Infinity Salt Fly Line
Made half size heavy turns over large flies on windy days.
Scientific Anglers Amplitude Infinity Salt Fly Line. Made half size heavy turns over large flies on windy days.
Scientific Anglers Amplitude Infinity Salt Fly Line. Made half size heavy turns over large flies on windy days. When we see room for improvement, we jump at the chance. In this case, we wanted to make our lines even slicker and more durable. Which brings us to AMPLITUDE. The first series of lines to feature the revolutionary AST PLUS slickness additive, the Amplitude will shoot farther and last longer than any other line on the market. It’s SLICKNESS down to a SCIENCE.
Scientific Anglers Mastery Saltwater Fly Line. For years, SA Mastery Series lines have been among our most-popular and best-performing lines. While some things have changed, one thing hasn’t: Mastery Series lines still deliver just as well as—if not better than—they ever have before.
Scientific Anglers Frequency Saltwater Fly Line. Here’s the deal: it’s still possible to get a heckuva fly line for less than 50 bucks. The Frequency Saltwater is a great all-around compound saltwater taper designed to load rods quickly and cut through the wind. The 7- through 10-weights are great for temperate climates, while the 11- and 12-weights are designed specifically for the tropics. What’s your frequency?
Scientific Anglers Sonar Leader 10ft. Imagine a world where you need to get a fly down to the fish, but all you have is a floating fly line. In that world, the perfect solution would be our SONAR Sinking Leaders. Luckily for you, we live in such a world. These 10' leaders attach to the end of a fly line and can put your fly anywhere in the water column. With five different densities, each weighing in at 50 grains, you'll be able to cover the surface to the depths.
Scientific Anglers XTS Gel Spun Backing. If you’re looking for the best backing available, nothing can beat the XTS gel spun backing. With a diameter a fraction of the standard material, XTS retains its strength in the water, offers extreme abrasion resistance, and can fend off the worst the elements have to offer.
Scientific Anglers XTS Gel Spun Backing. If you’re looking for the best backing available, nothing can beat the XTS gel spun backing. With a diameter a fraction of the standard material, XTS retains its strength in the water, offers extreme abrasion resistance, and can fend off the worst the elements have to offer.
The best Line Tray design on the market. Mesh base with a fold down base board which holds the tray open when in use and prevents water filling the tray from below and tangling the line, when deep wading or saltwater fly fishing. Folds flat against your body when not in use. Adjustable webbing belt with quick release buckles. Velcro pocket inside, to take leaders etc.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Roll Cast (Single Spey) Floating Fly Line. The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Roll Cast floating line is an exceptional line with a unique profile, delivering astonishing distance and turnover with a single roll cast. This line can be used for any floating line technique, however, it is ideal for bank fishing where a backcast is restricted.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Sink Tip Fly Line. The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Sink Tip (6ft) line is a must-have for any nymphing aficionado. The slow sink tip allows for a very natural depth and angle, plus improved chance of setting the hook versus a floating line. It has a wonderfully balanced profile for outstanding performance for a host of methods, casting greater distances with very little effort and outstanding presentation.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Ultra Dry Floating Fly Line. Those familiar with our award-winning XS-Plus Thistledown 2, will know what to expect with a premium multi-weight line. The NEW SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Ultra Dry floating fly line is of a very similar construction, with improved core and coating technology designed for even better presentation and feel, whether fishing in a river or from a bank or boat across an array of rod weights.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Floating Fly Line - Ivory/Deep Red
The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Floating fly line is a brilliant all-rounder, offering a wonderfully balanced profile and outstanding characteristics for a host of methods, such as single or double dry, lures, a team of nymphs, at close to exceptional distances with minimal effort and great presentation.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Floating Fly Line. The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Floating fly line is a brilliant all-rounder, offering a wonderfully balanced profile and outstanding characteristics for a host of methods, such as single or double dry, lures, a team of nymphs, at close to exceptional distances with minimal effort and great presentation.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Big Fly Floating Fly Line. New for 2025, The Spectre Pro range of fly lines instil the latest in core and coating technology to offer anglers the best combination of presentation and distance ever produced. In addition, our multiple densities are tested for accuracy to ensure ultimate depth control. Spectre Pro fly lines feature the specialist Deep Red running line (except Sink Tip) which is memory free and ultra slick.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Big Fly Mid Sink Fly Line. New for 2025, The Spectre Pro range of fly lines instil the latest in core and coating technology to offer anglers the best combination of presentation and distance ever produced. In addition, our multiple densities are tested for accuracy to ensure ultimate depth control. Spectre Pro fly lines feature the specialist Deep Red running line (except Sink Tip) which is memory free and ultra slick.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Fast Sink Fly Line. New for 2025, The Spectre Pro range of fly lines instil the latest in core and coating technology to offer anglers the best combination of presentation and distance ever produced. In addition, our multiple densities are tested for accuracy to ensure ultimate depth control. Spectre Pro fly lines feature the specialist Deep Red running line (except Sink Tip) which is memory free and ultra slick.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Sinking Countdown 4 Fly Line - Ivory/Deep Red
The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Countdown 4 fly line is a mid-fast sink line capable of reaching moderate depths quickly and with control. Ideal for lures and boobies. It has a wonderfully balanced profile for outstanding performance, casting great distances with very little effort whilst maintaining excellent presentation.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Sinking Countdown Fly Line. The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Countdown 4 fly line is a mid-fast sink line capable of reaching moderate depths quickly and with control. Ideal for lures and boobies. It has a wonderfully balanced profile for outstanding performance, casting great distances with very little effort whilst maintaining excellent presentation.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Sinking Countdown 7 Fly Line - Ivory/Deep Red
The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Countdown 7 line is a very fast sinking line capable of reaching considerable depths quickly and with control. Ideal for lures and boobies, it has a wonderfully balanced profile for outstanding performance, casting great distances with minimal effort.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Sinking Countdown 7 Fly Line. The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Countdown 7 line is a very fast sinking line capable of reaching considerable depths quickly and with control. Ideal for lures and boobies, it has a wonderfully balanced profile for outstanding performance, casting great distances with minimal effort.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Kelly Blue Intermediate Fly Line - Ivory/Deep Red
The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Intermediate 'Kelly Blue' line is a form of intermediate perfect for fishing the first few feet of water or deeper channels of shallow venues. Ideal for nymphing and lure fishing, it has a wonderfully balanced profile, capable of casting greater distances with minimal effort and greater presentation.
Snowbee Spectre Pro Kelly Blue Intermediate Fly Line. The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Intermediate 'Kelly Blue' line is a form of intermediate perfect for fishing the first few feet of water or deeper channels of shallow venues. Ideal for nymphing and lure fishing, it has a wonderfully balanced profile, capable of casting greater distances with minimal effort and greater presentation.
Snowbee Neutral Density (Slow Sink) Fly Line - Ivory/Deep Red
The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Neutral Density fly line is a form of slow intermediate and one of the first-choice lines top anglers select for tackling a new venue. Perfect for nymphing, lures or washing line techniques, the slow sink characteristics allow for a very natural depth to target fish in the first few feet of water.
Snowbee Neutral Density (Slow Sink) Fly Line. The SPECTRE PRO Precision Weight Forward Neutral Density fly line is a form of slow intermediate and one of the first-choice lines top anglers select for tackling a new venue. Perfect for nymphing, lures or washing line techniques, the slow sink characteristics allow for a very natural depth to target fish in the first few feet of water.
Snowbee XS-Plus Thistledown² Nano Hi-Float Fly Lines
Braided Core With Welded Loops At Both Ends - new upgraded version of the original line that was awarded 'Best New Fly Line in Europe at EFTTEX' - ‘Awesome’, ‘Stunning’, ‘Wow’ are just some of the words used to describe the new Thistledown Nano Technology fly lines – rated one of the best fly lines they have ever produced.
Snowbee XS-Plus Thistledown² Hi-Float Fly Line. ‘Awesome’, ‘Stunning’, ‘Wow’ are just some of the words used to describe the new Thistledown Nano Technology fly lines – rated one of the best fly lines we have ever produced. Typical jaw dropping reaction comes when people first cast this fly line... and is immediately followed by a huge smile!
Snowbee XS Delicate Presentation Floating Fly Line. This line was originally designed for ‘Thistle Down’ presentation on rivers but if anybody thought that rivers were the limit with this line they would be mistaken. The Continuous Rear Taper (CRT) profile has surprised many when demonstrating and on still waters where dry fly casting, using the #5 to #7wt versions, has proved effortless.
The long standing flagship of the range, the original Prestige, no frills and without doubt still one, if not the best floating fly line available today. Its unique combination of ultra-low friction coating, superbly balanced profile and outstanding shootability, makes this a fly line which enhances the performance of the world’s best fly rods and brings out the best in casters of everywhere whatever their ability.
The XS-tra distance lines use a shooting-head profile designed for extreme distance casting. The 30ft, 35ft and 40ft head, runs into a continuous, fine diameter running line for the ultimate ‘shootability’. The overall line length is 40 yards and early trials regularly saw the backing line loop rattling through the rod rings!
The new XS-Plus Extreme Distance has been the latest in award winning fly lines for Snowbee and now with a #5wt version, this is surely one of the ultimate distance casting lines ever made.
Snowbee XS-Plus Twin Colour Floating Fly Line. The original Snowbee twin colour, first used by casting instructors and demonstrators worldwide, to perfect and demonstrate their art. The best of Snowbee XS standard fly line design with a simple colour enhancement to assist every fly fisher in perfecting their technique.
Snowbee XS-Plus Hover Slow Intermediate Fly Line. The super slow, uniform sink rate of this line is designed to ‘hang’ just sub-surface hence the name. Some slow sinking lines simply sink too quickly and fall below invisible fish, feeding just beneath the surface. Sink-tip lines can be an option but this fishes slowly and evenly throughout its entire head length, offering exceptional control having first cut through the surface film. It then sinks very slowly with continuing immense control and
Snowbee XS-Plus Spectre Distance Fly Line - Floating. For many years the XS floating fly line has been a flagship product for Snowbee with perfect profile and memory free presentation. Now with the development of Nano Coating technology however, we have not only improved all our fly lines but also been working hard to produce a new XSPlus Spectre fly line, with a profile that can produce equally effortless, but longer casts without having to be a tournament caster...The new Nano Coating Technolo
Snowbee XS-Plus Spectre Distance Sink Tip Fly Line. Features a sinking 10ft tip of similar 2-2.5ips density to the long full head intermediate. The Floating line will provide long and accurate casts when fishing dries, and the sink tip can further extend that now to enhance control when fishing buzzers, damsels and washing line for example. The Intermediate, with a level sink rate on the head of 2-2.5ips provides the ability to fish sub-surface, plus allows great control to more depth if require
Snowbee Spectre XS-Plus Distance Fast-Sink Fly Line - Fast-Sink. For many years the XS floating fly line has been a flagship product for Snowbee with perfect profile and memory free presentation. Now with the development of Nano Coating technology however, we have not only improved all our fly lines but also been working hard to produce a new XSPlus Spectre fly line, with a profile that can produce equally effortless, but longer casts without having to be a tournament caster...The new Nano Coat
Snowbee XS-Plus Spectre Distance Intermediate Fly Line. For many years the XS floating fly line has been a flagship product for Snowbee with perfect profile and memory free presentation. Now with the development of Nano Coating technology however, we have not only improved all our fly lines but also been working hard to produce a new XSPlus Spectre fly line, with a profile that can produce equally effortless, but longer casts without having to be a tournament caster...The new Nano Coating Techno
Snowbee XS-Plus Spectre Distance Intermediate 2.5ips Fly Line. For many years the XS floating fly line has been a flagship product for Snowbee with perfect profile and memory free presentation. Now with the development of Nano Coating technology however, we have not only improved all our fly lines but also been working hard to produce a new XSPlus Spectre fly line, with a profile that can produce equally effortless, but longer casts without having to be a tournament caster...The new Nano Coating
Snowbee XS- Plus Buzzer Tip Fly Line. For optimum performance when fishing the ubiquitous and hugely rewarding style of buzzer fishing from the bank or boat. The last 3-4ft of the front taper section is coloured a neutral shade of olive where it has been designed to sink slowly and improve successful ‘hook ups’ and ‘feel’ when straight line nymphing and buzzer fishing.
Snowbee XS-Plus Buzzer 2 Fly Line. This is a brand new line and big brother to the original Buzzer line above. A sinktip line which exhibits superb casting performance, with a longer 10ft tip, which will hold longer sub-surface, giving straight line contact with the fly to avoid missed takes, whilst depth control is achieved through speed of retrieve. Ideal for serious trout, great in a bigger wave and fishing deeper than the original version and casts even better than the original Countdown opt
Snowbee XS-Plus Prestige Switch Switch Line - Floating. These modern day Switch lines are a little like a ‘compressed’ Spey line, with a short, heavy head (from 28-30ft) similar to a shooting head profile, but in the popular ‘Skagit’ style. Perfect for use when salmon fishing with the preferred lighter and shorter rods of today. The difference is the bulk of the weight is at the back of the head, providing power to create tight D-loops and truly effortless distance, coupled with great presentati
Snowbee XS-Plus Short Spey Floating Fly Line. The Short Spey line profiles have been designed to meet the demands of the modern salmon and sea-trout angler, fishing with a long or short double handed rod and for use in highly restricted areas, where the creation of a larger Spey loop is near impossible. By combining the best of the ‘Scandinavian underhand’ style of casting and ‘shooting head’ line technology, these lines have a perfectly smooth transition to the integral shooting head running li
Snowbee XS-Plus Traditional Floating Fly Line. On large open rivers there is normally plenty of room for Spey casting and the 62ft head of this line has proved the perfect length for the traditional Spey cast, whether casting your way down a tree-lined or steep sided river or open fields. Using a line with too short or too long a head and finding the optimum rod load point can be crucial so the colour change helps provide the perfect cast every time. Perfectly balanced for Spey casting in just a
Snowbee Snowbee XS-Plus Shooting Head Running Line - Salmon - 1mm x 40yd. To match any Shooting Heads, we have a slim and slick 1mm diameter, floating running line, in Hi-viz yellow of 40yds in length. This can be trimmed at reel end to fit any reel capacity and has a large pre-welded loop the other end, to allow the reel to be passed through, for quick and easy change of heads as and whenever necessary.
Snowbee XS Hi-Viz Floating Fly Line. The flagship of the range, the original ‘Prestige’ Fly Line. Without doubt one of the best floating fly lines available today. The unique combination of ultra-low friction coating, superbly balanced profile and outstanding shootability makes this fly line the line of choice to enhance the performance of the world’s best fly rods.
Snowbee XS Double Taper Fly Line. Incorporating all the superb properties of the original Snowbee XS Weight Forward Floating line, but in a Double Taper profile, for the traditional angler not yet converted to the Delicate Presentation where fly presentation is still everything. Great for delicate spider and dry fly fishing in particular.
Snowbee XS Intermediate Fly Line. Combining the original Kelly Blue and Clear Intermediate into one fly line has produced a fly line of effortless, slick casting ability, being exactly the same as the traditional XS floating in profile. Distance and presentation are therefore guaranteed, at a sink rate ideal to reliably search the water from the surface down, especially with lures, damsels and other mobile patterns. A hugely versatile line, great for loch style fishing from the boat or accuratel
Snowbee XS Fast Sink Fly Line. The very slim, hardly discernible weight forward profile of this uniform fast sinking line, enables excellent distance to be achieved easily when needing to get range and depth to present flies in the target zone. Low stretch core also enables excellent sensitivity but does not exhibit the issue of other fast sinking lines that can be non-stretch and have a tendency to ‘bounce’ fish off especially when fishing barbless. The slick, Nano-Tec coating is deceptively sm
Snowbee XS Plus Tropics Saltwater Floating 'Presentation' Fly Line. A floating line with a longer head and extended tapers, designed for smaller flies and precise presentation. The ideal line when ‘sight fishing’ for bonefish, permit, jacks etc., where a smooth and quiet ‘lay-down’ of the fly is essential. The colour change at the back of the head, notifies the precise shoot point, which together with the fine running line makes distance casting effortless.
Snowbee XS Plus Tropics Saltwater 'Depth Charge' Fly Line. When you need to get down deep and fast with either short or long casts, our new Tropics ‘Depth-Charge’ delivers on all counts. The short, shooting head profile and fine running line, will punch through a stiff wind effortlessly, whilst the 5-6 ips fast-sink head will get your fly down fast, to the ‘strike zone’. The colour change at the back of the head, notifies the precise 'shoot point' making distance casting effortless.
For many years, Snowbee has produced some of the best quality fly lines on the market today. Launched in 2010 this economically priced range of lines is aimed at the budget conscious angler. At these prices, you would not expect the supreme performance of the XS range of lines, however they offer good, reliable performance and make an exceptional ‘entry level’ or combo kit line.
Fly Line & Backing
What Are Fly Line & Backing and How Do They Work?
Fly line and backing are fundamental components of any fly fishing setup, playing a crucial role in how effectively you cast, control, and land fish. Unlike conventional fishing where the weight of the lure carries the line, fly fishing relies on the weight of the fly line itself to deliver the fly accurately. This makes choosing the right fly line just as important as selecting the correct rod or reel.
Fly line is a specially weighted, tapered line designed to load the fly rod during casting. It transfers energy from the rod to the leader and fly, allowing for smooth, controlled presentations across rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. Backing, by contrast, is a thinner, high-strength line attached between the fly reel and the fly line. Its primary purpose is to provide extra length and security when a powerful fish runs beyond the reach of your fly line.
Together, fly line and backing form a balanced system. Whether you are stalking trout on a small chalk stream, targeting grayling in winter flows, or pursuing hard-fighting saltwater species, the right combination improves casting efficiency, line control, and fish-playing confidence.
How to Choose the Right Fly Line & Backing for Your Needs
Selecting fly line and backing can feel complex at first, but understanding a few core principles makes the process straightforward. The key is matching your line and backing to your fishing environment, target species, and existing tackle.
Fly Line Weight and Rod Matching
Fly lines are rated by weight, typically from #1 (very light) to #12 and above (heavy saltwater). This number must match the weight rating of your fly rod to ensure optimal casting performance. A correctly matched line loads the rod efficiently, improving accuracy and reducing fatigue during long sessions.
Floating, Sinking, and Intermediate Lines
Floating fly lines are the most popular and versatile choice, ideal for dry fly fishing, nymphing, and general freshwater use. Sinking fly lines and sink-tip options are designed to get flies down quickly in deeper or faster water, making them well suited to stillwaters, reservoirs, and sea trout fishing. Intermediate lines sink slowly and are often favoured for loch-style fishing or shallow coastal work.
Line Taper and Casting Style
The taper of a fly line affects how it casts and presents the fly. Weight-forward tapers are forgiving and easy to cast, making them ideal for beginners and general fishing. Double taper lines offer excellent control and delicate presentation, often preferred by experienced anglers on small rivers. Specialist tapers are also available for distance casting, roll casting, or shooting heads.
Backing Strength and Capacity
Backing is typically measured in breaking strain, commonly ranging from 20lb to 50lb for freshwater and higher for saltwater. Lighter backing allows more capacity on the reel, while heavier backing offers added security against strong fish. Ensuring your reel has sufficient backing capacity is essential, particularly when fishing for species known for long, powerful runs.
| Fishing Scenario | Recommended Fly Line | Typical Backing |
|---|---|---|
| Small rivers & streams | Floating, weight-forward | 20lb Dacron |
| Stillwater trout fishing | Intermediate or sinking | 20–30lb backing |
| Saltwater fly fishing | Floating or fast sinking | 30–50lb backing |
Top Fly Line & Backing Brands and Models at Uttings
Uttings stocks a carefully curated range of fly lines and backing from trusted manufacturers known for consistency, durability, and performance. These products are designed to complement quality fly rods and fly reels, ensuring a balanced setup for every angler.
From easy-casting floating lines ideal for newcomers, to advanced textured lines designed for distance and line control, our range caters to both hobbyists and seasoned professionals. Backing options include traditional Dacron for reliability and modern gel-spun alternatives for maximum strength with minimal diameter.
Whether you are refreshing an existing setup or building a complete outfit alongside leaders and tippet, you will find dependable options suitable for freshwater, stillwater, and saltwater fly fishing.
Fly Line & Backing Tips and Expert Advice
For beginners, starting with a quality weight-forward floating line and standard backing is often the best route. This combination is forgiving, versatile, and well suited to learning core casting techniques. Pairing it with balanced fly fishing accessories such as line cleaners and reel tools helps extend lifespan and maintain performance.
Experienced anglers may fine-tune their choice based on seasonal conditions, water depth, or specific species. Switching between floating and sinking lines, or carrying spare spools with different setups, allows rapid adaptation on the water. Regularly checking backing knots and line condition is a small habit that can prevent lost fish and equipment failure.
Why Buy Fly Line & Backing at Uttings
Uttings is a family-run business based in Norwich, established in 1976 and built on decades of hands-on experience in outdoor and field sports retail. Our team understands fly fishing from a practical perspective, offering advice grounded in real-world use rather than theory alone.
We stock premium fly line and backing from the world’s leading brands, backed by expert customer service, fast delivery, and a genuine passion for the great outdoors. With over 45,000 five-star reviews on Trustpilot, anglers trust Uttings to deliver quality, value, and dependable support every time.
Fly Line & Backing FAQs
What fly line weight should I choose?
Choose a fly line that matches your rod’s weight rating. This ensures proper rod loading and smoother casting.
What is the difference between floating and sinking fly line?
Floating lines stay on the surface for dry flies and nymphs, while sinking lines get flies down quickly in deeper water.
How much backing do I need on a fly reel?
Most freshwater setups use 50–100 metres of backing, while saltwater reels often require significantly more.
Is fly line taper important?
Yes. Taper affects casting style, presentation, and distance, making it an important factor when choosing a line.
What backing strength is best for trout fishing?
For trout, 20lb backing is usually sufficient and offers a good balance of strength and reel capacity.
How long does fly line last?
With proper care and cleaning, quality fly line can last several seasons of regular use.
Can I use the same backing with different fly lines?
Yes, backing can usually be reused when changing fly lines, provided it remains in good condition.