# **How to Choose Weight Forward Floating Fly Line for Salmon Fly Fishing (WF9F & WT12F)**
Fly fishing for salmon is an exhilarating experience, but choosing the right fly line is crucial for success. Among the various options available, **Weight Forward Floating (WF) fly lines** are among the most popular for salmon fishing due to their casting efficiency and versatility. In this guide, we’ll break down how to select the best **WF9F and WT12F** fly lines for salmon fishing, ensuring optimal performance on the water.
## **Understanding Weight Forward Floating (WF) Fly Lines**
A **Weight Forward (WF) Floating (F) fly line** is designed with a thicker, weighted front section that tapers toward the rear. This design helps in:
– **Easier long-distance casting** – The concentrated weight in the front loads the rod efficiently.
– **Better turnover of large flies** – Essential for salmon flies, which are often bulky and wind-resistant.
– **Improved mending and line control** – Critical for presenting flies effectively in moving water.
The **”WF9F”** and **”WT12F”** designations indicate:
– **WF** = Weight Forward
– **9/12** = Line weight (9-weight or 12-weight)
– **F** = Floating
## **Why Choose a WF Floating Line for Salmon?**
Salmon fishing often involves:
– **Large, heavy flies** – WF lines help turn them over smoothly.
– **Long casts** – Necessary for covering wide rivers or avoiding spooking fish.
– **Variable currents** – Floating lines allow for better mending and control.
A **WF9F** is ideal for medium-sized salmon and lighter rods, while a **WT12F** is better suited for large salmon (like Chinook) or heavy wind conditions.
## **Key Factors When Choosing a WF Floating Fly Line**
### **1. Line Weight (9 vs. 12)**
– **WF9F** – Best for **Atlantic salmon, smaller Chinook, and steelhead**. Works well with 9-weight rods.
– **WT12F** – Designed for **big Chinook, large Atlantic salmon, or extreme conditions**. Pairs with 12-weight rods for maximum power.
### **2. Taper Design**
– **Short, aggressive tapers** – Better for quick, powerful casts in windy conditions.
– **Longer, gradual tapers** – Smoother presentation for delicate drifts.
### **3. Coating & Durability**
– Look for **low-stretch, slick coatings** (like KyleBooker’s **XT-Slick Technology**) for better shootability and longevity.
– **Saltwater-resistant coatings** are essential if fishing in brackish or coastal waters.
### **4. Color & Visibility**
– **Bright colors (orange, yellow)** help track line movement in fast currents.
– **Low-visibility (olive, gray)** may be preferable in clear water to avoid spooking fish.
## **KyleBooker’s Recommended WF Floating Lines for Salmon**
At **KyleBooker**, we’ve engineered high-performance WF floating lines tailored for salmon anglers:
– **KyleBooker WF9F ProCast** – Ultra-low memory, superior floatation, and excellent turnover for medium salmon.
– **KyleBooker WT12F PowerTaper** – Heavy-duty construction for big fish, with reinforced core for durability.
## **Final Tips for Salmon Fly Line Selection**
– **Match your rod weight** – A 9-weight line for 9-weight rods, 12-weight for 12-weight rods.
– **Consider water conditions** – Floating lines work best in rivers; sinking tips may be needed for deep pools.
– **Test different tapers** – Some anglers prefer a more aggressive front taper for distance, while others prioritize delicacy.
By choosing the right **WF floating fly line**, you’ll maximize casting efficiency, fly presentation, and ultimately, your salmon fishing success. Whether you opt for a **WF9F or WT12F**, KyleBooker’s premium fly lines are built to enhance your performance on the water.
**Tight lines and happy fishing!** 🎣
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*This article is brought to you by **KyleBooker** – Precision-engineered fly fishing gear for the modern angler.*