[mercgyno]

I've always been told to put one weight higher line than the rod its going on. For example 4 wt line on a 3 wt rod.

I'd love everyone's take or opinion on this common suggestion.

MG

[fshfanatic]

I did that as a rule when I was learning the sport as my mistakes were compansated by the heavier line weight.

Now I put the 4wt line on a 4wt rod, etc.

[tightlines57]

The rod is designed to function at it's peak when matched with the appropriate line. I've heard pros and cons for going up a weight and going down a weight. In my opinion, stick with what the rod is designed for.

[troutbum]

I agree,sticking with the line the rod is made for is your best bet most of the time,now saying that,I have found that loading my 8'4wt with a wtf 5 works great on the small freestone creeks I fish,seems to give a little better line control and loads the slower rod a bit better,but on longer cast's say 35' or more you will find the line pilling up but on small streams I always over load my rod.
tight lines
Aaron

[BigCliff]

For the most part I think overlining rods is a BAD IDEA, but if all casts are going to be under 30', it might be the better idea. A 4wt line works much better for nymphing with indicators than a 3wt does as well.

[Joni]

My opinion on this is, go with the size of the rod on floating (you have the three choices to help load it up - Triangle, Double, & Weight Forward Tapers)
However, I do go one size larger on my weighted lines because the diameter of the line is smaller than equal floating.