While they may look they same to the untrained eye, not all Sinking lines (Sinking Tip or Full Sinking) are create equal! In addition to "Sink Rates" (refer to Tech Tip "Sink Rates") and "Tip Lengths" (refer to Tech Tip "Sinking Tip vs. Full Sinking"), the way in which a line sinks can have a major impact in regard to its effectiveness. While older and less expensive Sinking lines sink belly first often leaving the fly hovering near the surface unbeknownst to the angler, modern higher priced lines sink "Tip" first.

Applicable to both "Sinking Tip" and "Full Sinking" lines, "Uniform Sink" (as Scientific Anglers refers to it) or "Density Compensated" (as RIO refers to it) implies that the line is heavier in the tip than it is in the belly and running line. This is accomplished via a number of processes including imbedding "Tungsten" shards into the covering of the line (and they wonder why Sinking Lines are so tough on guides!). Regardless of how it is accomplished, the result is the same - More Fish!

When a line sinks "Belly" first, as stated above the fly in near the surface while the line is near the bottom. As the angler strips in line, the line must follow a curve that brings the fly down and the line up. When a strike is detected, the angler sets the hook straightening the line before making contact with the fish (similar to what happens when using Sinking Tips in Stillwater!) This delay in setting the hook in conjunction with the lack of force often leads to weak sets which results in lost fish!

When using a "Uniform Sink/Density Compensated" line, the length of line between the angler and the fly is much straighter and the fly is in most cases at the depth you desire. As such, it is much easier to detect strikes due to the lack of slack in the line and when a strike is detected, the fly responds immediately to the anglers hook set! The end result is more strikes detected, stronger sets, and by default, more fish. With just so many chances to do it right, everything helps!