Think backing doesn’t matter? Think again. When a big trout blitzes your fly and peels every inch of line, that bright spool of backing is either your best friend—or the reason you lose the fish of a lifetime. Most anglers overlook it. In this quick-hit episode, I’ll make sure you’re not one of them.
Intro:
Welcome to the Stillwater Edge Podcast. I’m your host, Greg Keenan, and today we’re talking about something that rarely gets the attention it deserves—fly line backing. This might seem like a small detail, but backing plays a massive role in stillwater success, especially when you're fishing deep, fighting big fish, or swapping lines throughout your season. In under five minutes, I’ll show you exactly what kind of backing to use, how much you really need, how to spool it properly, and what setups work best for your goals. Let’s get to it.
What You’ll Learn:
What fly line backing actually does—and why it matters in stillwater
How much backing you really need for trout, pike, carp, and lake trout
The right way to spool backing tight and level (and avoid nasty tangles)
Dacron vs. Gel Spun backing: when to use each
Real-world situations where your backing saves the day (and your fish)
Quick Tips from This Episode:
For most stillwater trout setups, 75 to 100 yards of 20 lb Dacron is ideal
Use your reel specs to avoid overpacking or underfilling
Always spool tight and level to prevent line damage
Use loop-to-loop connections for quick fly line changes
Dacron is your go-to for reliability and cost—Gel Spun only if you need space
Outro:
Next time you're setting up your reel, don’t skip over the backing—it’s not just filler, it’s your safety net when it counts. If this episode helped you rethink your setup, make sure to subscribe to the Stillwater Edge podcast, follow us on Instagram, and check out our latest tips and gear on YouTube. As always, I’ll see you out on the water.
