Fly Line backing question

[jakeway]

I'll probably know the answer to this soemtime mid-day Saturday, when I get home and load my new fly reel, but here's a questions someone out there may know already.

What is the relative holding capacity for 30 pound test Micron backing compared to 20 pound test?

My new reel's mfg claims 200 yards of 20# backing. I was wondering if 150 yards of 30# backing would be about the same.

 

[B.D.]

I would guess that you're about right - 30# backing will probably get you around 50 yards less.

When you wind your backing onto the reel, get the estimated amount on, and before you cut the backing off the spool, tape or loosely tie the end of the flyline to the backing. Then wind it on and see if it fits. That way, if you need to put a little more on, it's easy to do.

This is going to go back to those local flyshops again, but I always just get the flyshop to put the backing on a new reel when I buy it. I haven't put on backing on my own in years. Just one more tedious, time-consuming task I'd rather pay for than do myself. :)

bd