When it comes to skagit casting, we’ve long been fans of mono running lines, particularly when fishing light weight spey or switch rods. Nowadays there are bunch of different options out there, all of which have their advantages and disadvantages.
However, a couple weeks ago we were joined by the OPST crew here at Alaska West. We had a chance to fish their new Lazar Line running line, and it’s pretty awesome. We were really impressed by it and here’s why..
- It boosts. It’s called the Lazar Line for a reason. Due to a flatter cross section than most running lines, this stuff shoots far, really far,
- No memory. Unlike most mono running lines out there, the Lazar Line has virtually no memory. Simply spool it on, give it a good stretch before fishing it for the first time, and voila! No more coils.
- It comes in good sizes. Unlike most ‘spey specific’ running lines, the Lazar Line comes in more than your typical 20 and 30 lb. tests. Instead, it is available in 25, 30, 35, 40, and 50 lb. tests, allowing you to get the most out of your running line, which we think is pretty cool.
- It knots really well. No more big ugly loop knots. If tightened correctly, the Lazar Line actually ties extremely slim, but strong knots. See it for yourself from the Skagit Master himself, here.
We really like the Lazar Line and would highly recommend it to anyone who prefers a mono running line on their spey or switch rod. For more information on the Lazar Line, or other cool products, check out OPST’s website, here. or visit your nearest spey -savvy fly shop.
Wow, I rarely have time to watch any video, but the one you have provided with this article was just so helpful and non-dramatic. I appreciate that integrity of presentation. Thanks, Kyle.
tried earlier……..if you use sink tips and get hung up the dang stuff breaks and you loose entire rig……..mult times on O.P in March by two anglers. I’ll use it dry on Kispiox and Sustutr very soon. Tipless in Paradise! grampus
Here’s a review from a friend who tries everything.
“I have tried the OPST running line and after fishing with it 4 days I junked it. I liked it a lot until it kinked and then it was a continual tangle with long casts the most frustrating running line I ever used and expensive.”
Great site with so much info ! After much reading I think I am am finally getting a grasp on spey line choices, maybe … I have 12′ 5/6 two hander that I will be fishing on the Alagnak in late September I would like to get the S.A. skagit extreme with multi-tips.
I am new to spey and this seems like a good place to start. How do I decide on what weight line to choose?
Thanks,
gavin
I have tried many running lines. For the last three season I have used Rio Slickshooter, which works well provided you make some effort to straighten the line before fishing. I tie it to my tow bar, walk 50 yds and pull hard for at least 3 minutes. It works. This year I came across OPST. The video’s are cool and I liked the look of their fresh approach. I bought a 50m spool of Lazar 35lb for $32. It is bright green so easy to see. The line is much thinner than Slickshooter and casts further. As the line goes out it looks more like a spinning line. It is not so easy to grip on the cork as so thin. The biggest disappointment is the line memory. To say it has virtually no line memory is not accurate. It is much the same as Slickshooter and benefits from the same line straightening procedure. I will use for very light line Skagit below 400 grain. Slickshooter for anything heavier.