[JBinUTAH]

I have a line question I would like to get some constructive opinions on.
I have two 5 weight fly rods, one Sage XP 9'-6" and one TFO TiCr-X 9'. Both have a large arbor Orvis Battenkill III. I have Scientific Anglers Mastery XXD WF-5-F on one spool and need to put line on the other for the second rod. I already have a new box of XXD but in WF-6-F. I have read about sometimes using a larger size line than the rod is rated for with mixed opinions. I have also thought of going with the SA GPX WF-5-F. I am a novice fly caster at best, but improving. I like the XXD, but have not experienced others except the GPX. I have a third spool with Cortland 444 Clear Camo for a sinking line I could use on either rod. I fish the Provo, Henry's Fork, and Madison, etc.

Should I install the XXD 6wt.? Buy GPX 5wt.? Buy??
Tell me what you think or may have experienced. Thanks in advance for the help.

[Curtis]

Hey JB, I have actually heard people say that the TicrX will cast better overloaded by one size. It also helps a fast action rod like those to load quicker when you have to make short casts. That is one draw back of the fast action rods is that you need ten feet of line out of the tip to really load it up good but if you overline it, you will only need five. If you have the spool for it, give it a go. The GPX is a great line.

[BigCliff]

I am one of those who is generally opposed to overlining, so I'll give you some other options.

Since you've already got a good line for delicate presentations on a fast rod (XXD on XP), why not go with one that isn't so delicate but will kick over bigger and heavier bugs, and is built heavy like the GPX? SA makes this line and they call it the Headstart. Its basically a bass bug line that they make all the way down to a 4wt. The cool thing is, since its a "beginner" line, they sell it for $35 instead of $60+.

Another option is to go with a sink tip line for fishing streamers and such down deeper. I really like the Teeny-type lines with the 24' sinking section, although a line with a 6-10' sinking section will cast more like a normal line.

You could also get one of these. http://www.thefullcreel.com/files/index.php?id=214. That will give you LOTS of versatility.

One last option is to buy some shooting line and a spool of lead core and start making up heads. You'll probably find there is at least a 6' range of lengths that you can cast on that rod, and you can keep customizing them until they feel just right.