It’s a sink tip mess. And it’s probably one you’ll have too occasionally.

We’re gearing up for Fall Steelheading in Southern Oregon, and it’s crucial to sort out your tips prior to hunting chrome. It’d be a shame to loose a prized fish due to a tip failure, and though it’s rare, it happens. If you’re that guy that dredges and has had a few root wad encounters, this especially applies to you…

Check your tips by:

Inspecting both loops for cracks/core exposure/cuts/chips. Once the braid shows, its especially vulnerable.
Run your fingers down from tip to tip and check for damage throughout.
Hold one end in one hand. With your other hand, pull the length of the tip through your fingers, applying about 5 lbs of pressure. Feel for stretchy, compromised, weird or soft spots.

IF you have a compromised tip, it often breaks in this final test.

I’m probably in the minority of Steelheaders who needs to inspect their gear so regularly but it also applies to lines/tips stashed in the garage which may have moved well past their prime. Synthetic materials do have an expiration date.

Knowing your gear will give you more confidence and more trust in the process of swinging flies for steelhead and as every steelheader worth his green water would say, confidence is key to success.

Tight Lines!