Fly Fishing Line Intermediat – BoneFish／Saltwater Fly Lines
Joel Wakefield 
# **How to Choose Fly Fishing Line Intermediate – Bonefish/Saltwater Fly Lines**
Fly fishing in saltwater environments, especially when targeting species like bonefish, requires specialized gear to handle the unique challenges of the habitat. One of the most critical components of your setup is the fly line. Choosing the right **intermediate fly line** for bonefish and saltwater applications can significantly impact your casting distance, presentation, and overall success on the water.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when selecting an intermediate fly line for saltwater fly fishing, ensuring you make an informed decision for your next adventure.
## **Understanding Intermediate Fly Lines**
Intermediate fly lines are designed to sink slowly, typically just below the surface, making them ideal for shallow flats, mangrove edges, and tidal zones where bonefish and other saltwater species feed. Unlike floating lines that stay on top or full-sinking lines that dive deep, intermediate lines offer a perfect balance—allowing your fly to stay in the strike zone without spooking fish.
### **Key Features of a Good Bonefish/Saltwater Intermediate Fly Line**
1. **Line Weight & Taper Design**
– Most bonefish anglers use **7-9 weight rods**, so matching your line weight to your rod is essential.
– **Weight-forward (WF) tapers** are popular for saltwater fishing because they provide better turnover in windy conditions and allow for longer casts.
2. **Sink Rate & Density**
– Intermediate lines sink at a rate of **1-2 inches per second**, keeping the fly just beneath the surface where bonefish often feed.
– Look for **density-compensated cores** to ensure an even sink rate throughout the line.
3. **Durability & Corrosion Resistance**
– Saltwater is harsh on gear, so choose a line with **corrosion-resistant coatings and braided cores** to prevent deterioration.
– **KyleBooker’s SaltPro Intermediate Line** features a reinforced coating that resists abrasion from sand and oyster beds.
4. **Color & Visibility**
– A **light blue, clear, or tropical green** line helps blend into the water, reducing visibility to wary fish.
– Some anglers prefer a **high-visibility tip** (e.g., fluorescent orange) for tracking the line in choppy conditions.
5. **Shooting Ability & Low Memory**
– Saltwater fly lines should shoot smoothly through the guides, even after prolonged exposure to heat and sun.
– **Low-memory technology** prevents coiling, ensuring better performance in tropical climates.
## **Best Applications for Intermediate Fly Lines**
– **Bonefish on Flats:** The slow sink rate keeps your crab or shrimp patterns in the feeding zone without dragging on the bottom.
– **Permit & Trevally:** These species often cruise just below the surface, making intermediate lines ideal for precise presentations.
– **Tidal Creeks & Mangroves:** The line’s ability to stay submerged helps avoid spooking fish in shallow, clear water.
## **Top Recommended Intermediate Fly Lines**
1. **KyleBooker SaltPro Intermediate WF** – Designed for tropical saltwater conditions, featuring a smooth casting taper and superior durability.
2. **Scientific Anglers Sonar Intermediate** – A density-compensated line with excellent turnover in wind.
3. **Rio InTouch Intermediate** – Low-stretch core for better sensitivity and hook-setting power.
## **Final Tips for Choosing the Right Line**
– **Match the line to your rod’s weight and action.** A stiff saltwater rod pairs best with a true-to-weight line.
– **Consider water depth and current.** In ultra-shallow flats, a floating line with a sink-tip may be better, while intermediate excels in slightly deeper scenarios.
– **Test different brands.** Some lines perform better in heat, while others handle cold water better.
### **Conclusion**
Selecting the right intermediate fly line for bonefish and saltwater fly fishing can make or break your day on the water. By focusing on **sink rate, taper design, durability, and visibility**, you’ll maximize your chances of landing more fish.
For high-performance saltwater fly lines, check out **KyleBooker’s premium offerings**, engineered for anglers who demand precision and reliability in tough conditions.
**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣
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*This article is brought to you by **KyleBooker** – Your trusted partner in premium fishing gear.*