Sharkskin line opinions wanted

[jim f]

Looking to replace my 5wt Ridgeline. I like the way it casts but looking for something that floats a bit better. Have always had good luck with the SA Mastery or GPX lines but am also considering the Sharkskin.

From what I've read, most people love the way the Sharkskin casts & floats. However, I am concerned about the abrasive characteristics of the line.

Has anyone here used this line for an extended period of time? Have you noticed any damage to guides, rod, reel, etc as a result of the abrasiveness?

Thanks.

[Steve Z]

I just start with it at the end of last season so I can't really help with your question.

Anyway, I will say that it casts further than anything I've thrown and I can put out way more line than could ever be necessary. With a good double haul I can almost get the 4 weight into backing.

[Shadow]

It floats and casts well but when stripped it acts like a tiny saw blade and can quickly cut the grove in your finger. Definitely not for streamers and anyone who has bought the saltwater streamer version is crazy. It also makes more noise when casting. You can tell who is using it just by the sound. In hindsight, I wish I didn't buy it, especially at $100 a pop.

[FK]

Fantastic casting line, if it lasts 4x - 5x longer (as advertized) than other high end lines,,,,, it is a bargain at $100.

The noise is apparent in the parking lot/lawn of the the fly shop,,,,, on the water it is very faint.

Regards,
FK

[Richard W. Fleet]

Agree with FK and would add that during your drift it makes no more noise than any other line.

[Steve Z]

Personally, I like the sound - two reasons. First, I just like the sound it makes. Second, I think it adds another dimension to line control: Sound.

With a typical line you are using sight and touch. With sharkskin you can get clues about your line from sound too. It is subtle to think about but if you try it you will see, or hear, what I'm talking about.

[trouter203]

some of the guides in the bahamas really do not care for the noise it makes. then again the same guides want you to be barefoot when on the casting deck. i am not sure if the noise would spook the bones at all, but the line certainly is much more noisy than other lines.