Title: Re: Testing Prototypes
Post by: Hamish Young on 22/12/2011 at 23:20
Me like :cool:
H :z3
Title: Re: Testing Prototypes
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 23/12/2011 at 09:39
Is that an orange head and white running line I see?
Title: Re: Testing Prototypes
Post by: Hamish Young on 23/12/2011 at 11:26
Pretty close Rob :wink
H :z3
Title: Re: Testing Prototypes
Post by: Ben Dixon on 26/12/2011 at 12:08
Yup,
Very nice line, very excited by this one. Probably the best all round line I have come across to date.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Testing Prototypes
Post by: Euan Innes on 26/12/2011 at 19:49
If that's the "fishing" line that had a chuck with recently then, yes, it's the best line going. :z16 Just loverly, guv.
:z1
Title: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 02/01/2012 at 14:37
Hi folks :cool:
The new Barrio SLX fly lines have now passed the research and development stage and should be available from stock towards the end of this month, or early in February.
Here is a wee video testing the 6wt prototype :wink
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Hamish Young on 02/01/2012 at 16:48
I am perhaps a wee bit biased, but I think the new line is the proverbial dogs danglies :cool: It's seriously good and unquestionably the nicest fishing line I've used bar none. A very worthwhile addition to the range and a line that should be in everyones armoury :z16
H :z3
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: danbruce on 02/01/2012 at 16:53
Looks like a sweet line Mike! :z16
Just need the lessons to go with it so i can cast like the video. :X1
Think i'll be buying one once they are in stock. What range of weights you doing them in?
Cheers :z18
Dan
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 02/01/2012 at 17:04
Hi Dan :z16
The SLX will initially be available in WF4 to WF8, but we are working on a WF3 for the future too.
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Irvine Ross on 03/01/2012 at 08:43
Mike
How about a wee bit of information on the head length, taper etc. How does it differ to the GT90?
Irvine
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Hamish Young on 03/01/2012 at 11:07
Very different concepts in line design Irvine, specs will be forthcoming shortly I'm sure.
H :z3
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 03/01/2012 at 11:40
Hi Irvine,
The line has a head length of about 33' with a short belly and a series of multiple compound tapers to the front. The rear taper is also compounded and stepped allowing for sweet loops and fast shoots from rolls & Spey whilst still retaining stability on longer over head casts. The SLX is not designed as a distance line, this was not even a thought during the design process. It is designed to fish well at common ranges, from 20' to 70' (although it is relatively easy to straighten at 100'+) in a range of situations from both over head and roll casts. Superb on the river for short range accurate stuff, loads well at close range so superb for representing a team of traditionals dibbled back to boat or tube back out to fishing range with minimal false casting. The heavier weights are very happy to carry poly leaders and salmon flies from Spey casts or a team of lures for stillwaters. Great line also for making fast shoots when pitching dries to cruising rainbows on still waters. Turnover is positive but very controllable, the line really likes tapered leaders and gives accurate predictable presentations when throwing at big Don lumps where potential shots are always limited. I've put the samples in the hands of anglers of all abilities from relative novices to Master instructors and all the feedback has been very positive. The SLX has something to offer all levels of angler, advanced casters will be able to do some pretty clever stuff with it and thanks to the positive turnover, visible head and colour change, less advanced casters will get repeatable, predictable results every cast and good range with minimal effort.
Definitely my go to line in 2012 :cool:
Video of Kevin
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Peter McCallum on 03/01/2012 at 22:25
He'll have someones eye out with those loops :z4 :z4 :z13
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 03/01/2012 at 22:55
He'll have someones eye out with those loops :z4 :z4 :z13
Yeah, pretty tidy I thought but he'll still wring my neck for posting that clip :z4
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 03/01/2012 at 22:57
I've seen the full size version of that clip in HD at Ben's ....... awesome casting Kevin :z16
Cheers Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 03/01/2012 at 23:05
Although the main stock won't arrive for a few weeks yet, I have got a number of SLX WF6F fly lines in stock ( none of the other weights I'm afraid ) and anybody interested in one can order a WF6F now at http://www.flylineshop.com/barrio-fly-lines.html
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Kevin Muir on 04/01/2012 at 12:51
To put things in perspective about the video, I asked Ben for a casting lesson to improve my double haul as it was to be honest very underpowered and not very effective. Crap timing and a long way from being smooth and in any form of control would have summed up my double haul before the lesson started.
We met up and he gave me his teaching rod and line to work with, boy was this a steep learning curve, I knew the basics of the haul, the how and why but making the cast properly seemed a long long way off when I started to cast his rod. After a couple of hours of fairly intensive work (sore arm), it was time to pick up my own rod. everything started to click into place after lots of "less power comments" everything started to get a bit better. Still not spot on yet, but heading in the right direction. Thanks for the casting lesson Ben the difference in my haul before and after the lesson was dramatic.
The combination of the rod and the new SLX line is just spot on, the turnover for roll casts and "NORMAL range" fishing casts, ie shortish casts of 20 to 50 feet required almost no effort and the presentation is great. This outfit was a Christmas present from me to me, a #6 tip flex Helios, not cheap but what a rod. I tried the Access and also the tip flex Helios for a #5 line. After a brief play with the #6 Helios in the park at Banchory I hated the rod, really did not gell with it at all. I like the #5 much better but that was probably because it was a bit softer, I have a softer #5 rod so after a bit of discussion and another play with the #6 I decided to heed the advice and bought the #6 Helios. Am I glad I did, oh yes.
After casting the line for a week or so, I can only confirm what has been said above, a fantastic line Mike, I will be getting other sizes when they are released.
All the best for the 2012 season.
Kev.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Euan Innes on 04/01/2012 at 14:55
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 14/02/2012 at 20:48
hi Mike and gents ! just found this little article on the SLX on my friend Rudy's site, Waving a Stick. https://www.vandermeer-flyroddesign.com/wordpress/?p=198 not very techy but he seems to like it ! :z18
cheers, marc
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 14/02/2012 at 21:15
Hi Marc Great stuff, thanks for that :z16
Kind comments from Rudy, I'm really pleased that he likes the line! :cool:
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 14/02/2012 at 21:48
Thanks Marc. Just the way we were intended the line to be, easy to use and very controllable with most techniques within sensible fishing ranges :z16
You tried one yet?
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Andy Finlay on 15/02/2012 at 13:46
Mike, any plans for a different colour in the near future or is it quite subtle as is.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 22/02/2012 at 08:44
hey Ben ! sorry, i missed your question. i got them a few days ago and of course went out right away to try them ! but water here is still solid enough to drive trucks on... so, it's just snow casting for the moment which is great but doesn't help much to evaluate a line of this type. however, for the moment i'm quite pleased ! shot roll casts with 'The Roll-Cast Tool' go very far very easily :z13 there will be a full evaluation review on The Cobra of the SLX just as soon as weather permits several thorough tests.
cheers, marc
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Brian McGlashan on 23/02/2012 at 22:13
Lines do exactly what they say on the tin :z16. Cheers Mike I have the 5# and have used it with a few different rods and it works on all of them and excels at spey's Going to order an 8# but I see you are away for a few days. Be back to you on the 1st.
Best Regards
Brian McGlashan.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Sieger Devries on 03/03/2012 at 00:53
Ordered one in 4 weight.... before these are also sold out.. :wink
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Sieger Devries on 07/03/2012 at 12:07
Just had a first test-drive with the SLX 5 weight... Had it here for some time, but Pikeseason had it lying on the shelf until now...
So put it on a reel and tried it out on the lawn... Mmmmm what a lousy line it is.... Where has the work gone, where is my elite feeling that only I can trow a descent line... How can it be so ridiculously easy to get it away..... :z13
Hope you know I'm just kidding... What a great line you guys produced... Together with my Imago IPT 9' 5 weight (fast) rod it is a great combination that throws the line really whiteout any effort.... It's great fun to play it on the grass, I can't wait to try it on the water... Think my waterworks will improve a lot... Nearby and further away... this probably could be my combo to go to....
Hope the 4 weight will match my 4 rod as good as this... Thanks Mike and others involved..... :z16
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 07/03/2012 at 12:55
Hi Sieger, thanks for the kind comments .... I'm really pleased that you like the line :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 08/03/2012 at 22:30
Mike, Thanks for getting the line to me so quick, can't wait to get out on the water with it...will have to wait until April though :(
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 09/03/2012 at 11:11
Which one did you get Rob? There is some fishing available from 15th March :grin
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 09/03/2012 at 11:50
A 6 weight for a slightly heavier river approach to match up with my 9'6" Diamondback Finesse. Had the rod a year and not used it yet. Still has the plastic on the handle :roll
I bought a Partridge Reservoir line for it (for still water work), but the belly is way to long for me and I can't cast it so hoping the SLX will be more suitable.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 22/03/2012 at 18:32
Second time out with the SLX tonight. Love it! Suddenly I can do single handed spey/switch casts!
Thank you guys for making such a sweet line.
Only one request, can we get a version with a slightly less ARRRRGH coloured head? I can see this being my favourite river line but I do wonder if the orange might spook a trout or two?
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 22/03/2012 at 19:51
Rob, I think Mike may be planning to do a toned down version at some point but nothing concrete or definite. I'm really not convinced about the bright line / spooked fish thing, line on the water and silhouette is the same regardless of colour, when nymphing or spider fishing I like to see the line in all lights. when pitching dries I don't like to throw line over the fish as regardless of colour it is often a failed attempt.
I'll be using the SLX for 90% of my fishing this year and have no concerns about the colour at all.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 22/03/2012 at 20:51
Hi Rob :z16
Great to read that you like the line :cool: ..... and yes, I'm hoping to be able to offer an alternative colour later in the year :wink
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Sieger Devries on 22/03/2012 at 21:29
Any idea when the #6 lines are coming in again Mike... I really like these SLXses ... And I like the color... great to watch how the loops are rolling.... :grin
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Iain Cameron on 22/03/2012 at 22:50
Any idea when the #6 lines are coming in again Mike... I really like these SLXses ... And I like the color... great to watch how the loops are rolling.... :grin
Hi Sieger :z16
I'm hoping they will arrive before the end of the month.
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 22/03/2012 at 23:07
I'm really not convinced about the bright line / spooked fish thing, line on the water and silhouette is the same regardless of colour,
I hear you, but would like to add the following. Even a high floating line still has a portion sitting under the surface (same as a boat does) and therefore as a trout moves up in the water column the line is no longer sihlouetted. Add to this ruffled water or a fast sink poly leader pulling the tip of the line under, then I think on a very clear river it "may" spook "some" fish.
There is also the issue of light reflected off the bottom of the river and back up. It is rare for something to be truely shilouetted unless over deep water. A bright line will reflect this already reflected light back more than a dull line.
Trout and Salmon investigated this many years ago with photos taken of an orange, a white and an olive line from below. The orange was very obvious, as was the white!!
As I need all the help I can get...a camo line might just be the answer ;)
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 23/03/2012 at 11:59
I've never anyone cast a line over me whilst I was under water so I couldn't say for sure Rob!
But
Quote
when pitching dries I don't like to throw line over the fish as regardless of colour it is often a failed attempt.
I think the above is true regardless of line colour and to some extent regardless of method.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 23/03/2012 at 12:18
..... and yes, I'm hoping to be able to offer an alternative colour later in the year :wink
:z16
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 29/03/2012 at 12:04
hi All ! nice points Rob. this subject always winds up being like comparing blondes, brunettes and redheads... :z16 this is all a mater of personal preference and more importantly, of confidence.
observation has lead me to believe that the ones who want a 'camo' line are those who hardly if ever watch the line both on in the air and on the water. those who prefer visible lines watch both as well as the fly.
personally, i go by the (my) logic that if i can't see the line i'm missing out on many possibilities in controlling it, the cast, the drift and the take when using the tip as an indicator, etc, etc, etc.
as Ben so correctly points out, the goal every fly fisher should strive for is to never 'line' a fish or where it may lay, so it shouldn't really be of any importance whatsoever what color the line is :wink
tip: it's very easy to color the line tip with permanent markers. (as long as you don't use a Toluene-based marker that eats up plastic) that way those who feel the need for discretion can have the best of both worlds... :z13
cheers, marc
Title: Single handed 90 degree C spey cast
Post by: Mike Barrio on 29/03/2012 at 21:04
Lee Watts, Orvis endorsed, AAPGAI & FFF single handed rod instructor .... 6wt 9' 6" Helios rod, 6wt Barrio SLX line.
Check out Lee's website: www.doublehaul.co.uk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYR5LNiLgtw
Nice one Lee :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 31/03/2012 at 02:49
Hi Marc,
Always brunettes! ;)
I guess its my "carp fishing" past sneaking out in me...."If I can see it, then the fish can see it"
For me, the ideal river line would be a combination of an olive line with a 3-6 inch orange tip.
I dont cast big distances so can see an olive line enough to mend etc, but the orange tip would be great for nymphing etc.
My first every fly line was a Cortland 444 Peach Nymph tip that had exactly that, but was, of course, a pech colour for the main line.
Having said that, I have an SLX and an orange GT ine that will both be used on Sunday on the river..lol
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 02/04/2012 at 09:18
Rudy van der Meer casting the Barrio SLX in the Netherlands :z16
The photos were sent to me by Jeroen Schoondergang ..... Thanks Jeroen :z16
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Will Shaw on 02/04/2012 at 11:58
I like orange lines for casting and teaching, and cream lines for (surface) fishing. This is purely an aesthetic thing for me though, a cream line just looks right! :cool:
Hugh Falkus, bless him, used to say that we should have white sinking lines! He was fond of a drop or two of malt though...
W.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Peter McCallum on 02/04/2012 at 13:38
Had a lesson with him on his ponds in Cumbria ,and yes that evening was one of the biggest whisky drinking sessions i have ever done ,Me plastered ,the Falk seemed untroubled ! Yes as too the white sinkers ,on his Spey casting course he had a dt on a seatrout rod which i cast out and was gobsmacked when it sank ,looked for all the world like an Aircel white floater ,the idea never seemed to catch on .
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Iain Cameron on 21/05/2012 at 17:44
hi Mike
thanks for the excellent service, new SLX line arrived in saturday's post.
Had time to play with it today - great fun so far - was out in an open space of water for a change, lots of opportunities to mess about with circles and rolls and the like.
I know you rate this rod as 'slightly over AFTMA standards' - one nice benefit of that is that it helps me to cast off of the tip of the rod with less movement/effort so I could focus on other mechanics. I used that today to experiment with tightening up loops on the forward cast. sometimes i got it just right, and the resulting loops looked pretty good (for my standards) - not quite sexyloops standards, but tightening up. I think the bright orange helps too, i can see what i'm doing! just need to work on the three Rs - Repetition, Repetition, Repetition...
A good fishing tool, and a good self-teach tool too, awesome!
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 23/05/2012 at 00:46
Hi Iain
Thanks for the great feedback ..... I'm really pleased that you like the line :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Iain Cameron on 23/05/2012 at 10:24
Hi Iain Thanks for the great feedback ..... I'm really pleased that you like the line :z16
I'm liking it so much that I hooked myself in the back twice on monday night. lazy casting in a right to left wind... hence the need to practice more :-)
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 28/05/2012 at 23:58
Hi folks :cool:
Here are some photos of Ben playing with the SLX at Haddo. These were sent to me by Sean Morrissey, you can see more of Sean's photography at Sean Afnan Photographer ..... http://www.afnanstudios.com/ (http://www.afnanstudios.com/)
(http://fishingthefly.co.uk/xhaddo1-700.jpg)
(http://fishingthefly.co.uk/xhaddo4-700.jpg)
(http://fishingthefly.co.uk/xhaddo2-675.jpg)
Thanks Sean :z16
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 29/05/2012 at 00:32
Sean was the chap who came up a few weeks back. hopefully he will be back towards the end of the season for more photo fun and some salmon fishing.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 29/05/2012 at 10:22
lovely pics ! this Ben guy isn't too bad either.... :X2 :z13
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 29/05/2012 at 10:23
As Popeye might say, I got one in olive too Roberto and can't wait to try it out.
Iain
:z4 :z4 :z4 :z4 I like it!
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 03/06/2012 at 01:10
Good to hear there is an Olive SLX now. Only prob is...I reckon I'd need a #3 for my #4 Streamflex XF2 if the GT90 is anything to go by :roll
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 03/06/2012 at 01:16
Hi Lindsay
GT90 #4 should be fine on a Streamflex #4 ......... Does yours feel heavy?
Cheers Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 03/06/2012 at 14:08
Hi Mike,
I think I would need a #3 SLX on both the #4 Streamflex's - I tried a GT90 #4 and it was great at short to short/middle distance but any longer and the rod got well bendy and started to lose control (probably as much a reflection of my pants casting :z7).
A few guys on Fly Forums recommend underlining with the SF XF2's as well, something I discovered early on. DT's seem to be a bit better at the particular rating too, I think it is just with having all that weight quite near to the tip on a WF that the SF waves a white flag. I am looking at other Rod options just now, possibly a Orvis Access 9' #4 tip action to see how I get on. I seem to have quite a fast casting action (?) and maybe a tip action would suit this ?? Mainly fishing a single dry these days so the tighter loop may be desirable too...The SF's, although very good for the money IMO, are really very close in rods in my opinion thus suit the comp guys to a T, but there are times I would like to control the line more in the air (as I say self taught in the casting dept, and full of flaws no doubt !).
Got confused with the Orvis Supefines being "ultimate dry fly rods" as they are classed as 'butt' in action - I always thought that the best dry rods were tip action for accuracy, but possibly this is for distance ? All too technical for me I am afraid ! Ben what say you ? If I do get a new Rod will defo get an SLX though as your lines are pure quality :z16
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 03/06/2012 at 17:38
Hi Lindsay,
The Streamflex are quite soft rods from memory (long time since I cast one). The bigger the bend in the rod, the greater the distance you have to move the rod so with a longer line out of the tip or a faster acceleration of the rod you need to move the rod over a greater distance between the stops. Does that make sense? I'm sure that the streamflex should be quite happy presenting a dry at 55-60' from where you are stood, this is about maximum range I would want to present a fly at anyway.
WRT the Superfines...... They are a full flex action and soft for their line ratings, the expectation with most of the models is that they will predominantly be used at close range although the will cast long when required. They give good feel with a short length of the prescribed line outside of the tip which helps with accuracy at close range for most (unless you can shorten the casting stroke with a fast rod and cast "off the tip"). Main benefit of softer rods is when fishing small flies on light tippet for big fish, they are more effective at absorbing lunges.
If you do have a fast snappy stroke then a tip actioned rod would probably suit you better although to get the best out of a fast rod you really do need to be able to adjust your stroke and power application at will.
Bring the kit you are struggling with to the ADAA day at the bothy next Sunday and I'll spend a bit of time with you to see if we can get things sorted.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 03/06/2012 at 18:03
Hi Ben,
Many thanks for all the advice there and the kind offer about Sunday, will see you down there so you can try one of the XF2's - they are apparently quite different from the original SF's but I can't comment. FWIW most folks prefer the older model it seems. Very happy with it at close range but with more line out it gets a bit wild to say the least ! I am also probaby a bit "wristy" in the forward delivery stroke as well which may not help.
I felt my presentation was suffering a bit lately, especially in the wind, and I have been through furled leaders with RM loops, making up my own knotted mono leaders, needle knotted Hardy Copoly tapered leaders and am now back on Dibble Furled leaders with tapered tippet - all too technical for me but I do think I have been missing something and I am certainly 'learning' ! However, blaming leaders, tippets and now Rods - the common denominator is me, so may just have to face up to it :oops
Cheers,
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 06/06/2012 at 14:12
The new olive head SLX lines are now in stock in all weights #4 to #8 :z12
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Iain Cameron on 11/06/2012 at 07:45
The new olive head SLX lines are now in stock in all weights #4 to #8 :z12
had a quick play with one yesterday - love the colour, subtle but visible. and a lovely supple line as always. Doh, i think I just ordered one too :-)
cheers iain
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 11/06/2012 at 09:04
Had my first proper play with the olive SLX #4 yesterday at Parkhill Loch and then on the river at Kemney.
To compare, I started off with £50+ of Joan Wulff Signature with a 32' head. This has been my go to line for the river and for fishing dries/small buzzers. I had 20 minutes with that line to "dial in" and then swapped to a more conventional £60+ Cortland 555 Rocket Taper WF#4. The rod was a #4 Orvis Zero Gravity 10.5 flex (so fastish)
Both these lines I am used to and I know that the Wulff needs to have the entire head out before the rod starts to work and that the 555 requires a bit of a haul to get it to shoot well.
So onto the SLX.
First the colour. Its a lovely subtle Olive, but has the knack of being visible on dark and light water. This I liked. I know some of you like the orange, and I do indeed have an Orange 6 weight, but there is something about this olive version that is just "right" when fishing tiny dries and buzzers. In the air is was easy to see as well, so looking back at my back cast I could track the line against the sky or trees.
The feel. Like all of Mikes lines, the line feels smooth and lays nicely on the water. I needed to strectch the line a little at the transition to the thinner line as it has a little kink, but as soon as I did this, it laid out fine. I put it down to being wound on a small reel with tight coils.
The cast. I got some line out the tip and started to do mini rolls until the entire olive head was out. Now, single handed spey casts are new to me, so I was not expecting much, but, I was managing to get the line out without to much issue, certainly well enough to present a fly good enough for a fish to take. My "energised" speys need work, but again I was able to shoot a bit of line, certainly more than I expected.
Change of direction. Now..this is where the line really came into its own. From straight out in front, a snake roll cast to the left then into a single spey saw me move the fly 90+ degrees no problem and put the fly down gently. Going the other way, a circle C into a spey and shoot and again, the fly moved 90 degrees. Its nice to be able to just flick and shoot the fly to different fish rising without overhead casting. From a boat I think you could have a lot of fun with this line.
Silly casting. Now, I know the SLX is not designed for overhead casting as such, but wow, does it do it well. Head on the transition point, roll into the air, a double haul and shoot and you can add an extre 10-15 yards no issue. I can't remember how long the SLX is but I had 6-8 turns of the line on my reel, the rest was out in front of me on the water. Not bad for a 4 weight and me. Its maybe not the most delicate of landing due to the profile, but it is more than good enough to present a fly to a distant fish.
On the river. I used the line for about an hour on the river, taking 5 small Brownies from a bit I would not of been able to fish with an overhead cast. River was runnibg left to right so I had to use a fairly large change of direction to get the dry fly slightly upstream of the fish to allow a drift over them. I used a snake roll to do this and the line/rod managed this without fuss. The line picks up nicely and leaves very little "rip" in the water, meaning stealthy casts to wary fish are possible.
So, what do I not like about the line. The only thing I can think of, and I can remedy it myself, is that the transition from olive to white is gradual (the olive fades out) so its not the easiest thing to see. A black marker pen will sort that though.
For a line costing a great deal less than my other two lines, I can see this as my go to line for still water and running. I love it!! The #4 is very sweet indeed. I am going to try it on my Sage XP next...I hope that this combination is going to be the beez kneez!!
Thanks for a great line Mike et al.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 11/06/2012 at 13:13
nice report that sums it up very well, Rob. :z16 this line seriously rocks ! :z13
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rudy on 11/06/2012 at 15:19
I was one of the lucky ones that got an SLX from the first batch that got delivered. At that time it was still winter and all the weather was frozen stiff. The first casts I made with temperatures well below zero. Even in these shitty conditions the line had no memory and it felt very very nice. It was very comfortable, well balanced. After almost half a year the line is still my number one line. It hasn't been of the reel since I got it and that says a lot, for me. I think it is because it has that very special quality that it just does what you want it do. The line does it so well that you just forget about it and just cast.
I already knew that the line was a great casting line, for all singlehanded spey variations but also for overhead. I took the line with me to Norway a few weeks back and during the fishing trip I found it that the line is a fine presentation tool is well. It handles all the curves and bends etc you want to make very well. It's dead easy; cast, wiggle it, and Bob's you Uncle. I have said it before, that in my opinion the SLX is one of the best flylines I have ever cast. The only thing I hoped for was the option to also get it in a more drab color. I like the orange head for casting, but for fishing I just like something with a more natural color.
So when I saw today that Mike has answered my prayers, I ordered the Olive one straight away. Mike thanks again for making this killer flyline. Can't wait for the Olive one to arrive.
Cheers, Rudy
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Sieger Devries on 11/06/2012 at 15:35
I couldn't agree with you more Rudy.... These are (maybe) the most versatile lines I have used till now... Speycasting heavy nymphs ( or a rigs off them), casting in heavy wind with a tandem wet flies or even delicately presenting a dry fly... The line will work with you...
Just in case one of mine could 'die' I just ordered some olive ones..... Great work Mike... Thanks.....
I used the lines on my trip to Ireland two weeks ago.... Just have a peek at my blog for some photo's...
http://tight-loops.nl/?p=1376
Maybe you could develop some speylines Mike, so I can catch me a salmon next time over..... :cool:
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 11/06/2012 at 19:39
Hi Rudy Welcome to the forum :z16
Thanks for the great feedback, I'm really pleased that you like the line!
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 11/06/2012 at 19:40
Thanks for the great feedback on the SLX Rob :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 11/06/2012 at 19:42
nice report that sums it up very well, Rob. :z16 this line seriously rocks ! :z13
It rolls too Marc :wink
SLX ....... the Rock & Roll fly line! :z4
Cheers Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 11/06/2012 at 19:44
Salmon lines Sieger .......... Cool, more ideas to play with :cool:
Cheers Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Euan Innes on 11/06/2012 at 22:39
OK, just to piss on the parade a little, I used the #4 SLX on what was probably the HOTTEST day I have ever fished and strange things happened. The Coastguard and I were up on a wee loch (don't ask where until he and I fish it properly :wink) in what was certainly 28C, possibly more. This loch is high in the hills and open to the beating sun all day. Factor 5000 was the order of the day! The line went really odd - sticky, limp, wouldn't shoot or load the rod, gathered slack in the rear haul of a double haul and just refused to turn over, just crash.
Next day in better but still hot temps it was just fine. There was a breeze at Haddo for the anniversary bash so it was cooler, and that seemed to make a difference. It rolled, snaked, overhead and hauled just fine so if anything 26C is the cut off for this line.
This is not a complaint, just an observation. I LOVE this line! It makes me look good, and makes casting easy. It does what everyone else says of it. Fortunately those temperatures are rare in Scotland, thank god, and I'll probably never fish in those conditions again, but at least we now know what to expect if we do.
Great line Mike and it's about to get a whole lot of use! I like it with an Orvis 6' Superstrong 11.5lb tapered leader shoved up the core, popped out and nail knotted. Chop off a foot, add a loop to the end of the leader and loop to loop the three fly leader on to that and bingo presto hey - LOCHSTYLE! :z16
Best line yet. Since we have an honest forum here, I thought I would share the experience.
:z1
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 11/06/2012 at 23:27
Yes, that was interesting feedback Euan, I'm hoping we'll get another day like that this summer so that I can try it out. I have heard of lines going sticky ( various brands ) when left in the sun in the rear window of a car before, so there must be a limit :z3
Forgot to ask, was Hamish using an SLX that day?
Cheers Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Euan Innes on 12/06/2012 at 06:43
Mike,
Hamish was mostly on sinking line duties and never really used the SLX. If we get another day like that I will NOT be fishing. I'll be in my hammock with a cold one :z18
:z1
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Hamish Young on 12/06/2012 at 08:46
Was that the day we went down and caught bugger all??
that was one of the days I've been fishing and caught hee-haw... so many to choose from! aye, that was a scorching scorchio of a day.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: arog on 23/06/2012 at 11:14
Is this fly line capable to deliver pike flies? If not what fly line you could suggest for it?
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Hamish Young on 23/06/2012 at 17:10
The #7 and #8 lines have no issues with a wide variety of sized Salmon flies (with polyleaders attached) so I would think it's plausible that they would cope with some Pike flies.
H :z3
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 24/06/2012 at 22:28
Hmmm...I tried some heavy, very heavy trout streamers on the 6 weight...does it, and does it well using a spey/role cast, BUT, normally when Pike fishing you retrieve to your feet rather than having a length of line out and spey/rolling from a distance.
Many Pike take within a rod length and it is important to get that fly in close. Spey casting you lose 30 feet of retrieve.
I am now using a Cortland Rocket Taper Pike fly line, which is rather good. I also have Rio Outbounds in Intermediate and Slow sink and shooting heads in float, slow and fast sink.
I use the Cortland for 90% of my fishing.
So, although the SLX will deliver the flies, I just think its development as a spey line means its limited for stillwater Pike.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: arog on 24/06/2012 at 22:58
Well I got 6/7 airflo rod from their fly fishing kit, so I can use #7 weight fly line. But how about normal overhead casting? Does it works well? By the way, I should mention the fact that I almost always fishing in river. So spey line would be better, because I don't have enough place behind me.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 24/06/2012 at 23:38
The SLX is not developed solely as a Spey line, it works well with any cast but it's rear weight bias makes it a good Spey line. Anything other than a front weighted line will struggle with what you are looking for Rob, the Outbound short would be about the best I know of solely for pikying on still water with over head casts.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 25/06/2012 at 08:26
Anything other than a front weighted line will struggle with what you are looking for Rob,
I am not looking for anything Ben, I already have :)
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Hamish Young on 25/06/2012 at 10:47
Having just returned from a week in Assynt (more on that another time) I can report back on how the SLX #4wt behaved as a 'loch' line on my Helios 10' #4wt.
Awesome - pure and simple, coped with all wind conditions and flies of my ....errrr...... 'usual' size :wink and others in more sensible sizes.
If you can find a better line I'd be very surprised indeed, simply makes the whole experience even more pleasurable :cool:
Excellent :z12
H :z3
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 25/06/2012 at 11:16
Cool, thanks for the feedback Hamish :z16
Cheers Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 25/06/2012 at 12:29
Awesome - pure and simple, coped with all wind conditions and flies of my ....errrr...... 'usual' size :wink and others in more sensible sizes.
If you can find a better line I'd be very surprised indeed, simply makes the whole experience even more pleasurable :cool:
Excellent :z12
:z3
couldn't agree more. my 4wt was a real treat to use last week in norther sweden. :z16
cheers, marc
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 16/07/2012 at 00:17
Away to take plunge on an SLX #4. You guys that have both Olive and Orange what is your preference and experience of the bright Orange line in a river fishing situation re putting fish down or not ? I'd normally go with Olive but I am considering the Orange to help improve my casting (by being easier to see esp. when casting ). Reading what Ben said earlier about Orange lines not spooking fish makes sense and tbh if it is good enough for him !
I suppose I could buy one of each :wink
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 16/07/2012 at 00:39
Hi Lindsay :z16
I've been experimenting with this for years, I don't think that the colour of a fly line makes any difference to the fish whatsoever :wink
Confidence catches fish! ...... and the only time that the colour of a line makes any difference in my experience, is when an angler thinks it does and loses confidence :z6
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 16/07/2012 at 00:46
I've been experimenting with this for years, I don't think that the colour of a fly line makes any difference to the fish whatsoever :wink
Confidence catches fish! ...... and the only time that the colour of a line makes any difference in my experience, is when an angler thinks it does and loses confidence :z6
Cheers Mike,
My confidence is lacking in the casting dept. so anything that helps me tweak that is paramount ! Used to fish a bright Yellow Airflo years ago and can't recall it impacting negatively but didn't fish dries in those hedonistic days.
At this time of year I am fishing in darkness so line colour is probaby not important, but the Orange Line will be great practising on grass.
Will order an Orange SLX.
Cheers,
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 17/07/2012 at 12:54
Hi Mike,
Got the #4 Orange SLX through this moring, very fast service as always ! :z16 I think the different colours marking the head and running line will really help me too. Had a shot of Ben's on Saturday and like it. Your Mallard WF has been doing the biz last few nights for me too.
Now I need to go see a man about a spare spool for my Hydros II !
Cheers,
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Jonathan Kerr on 17/07/2012 at 16:19
Hi all, are any of you willing to share what leader configurations you are using with the slx? Like everyone else I love the line and use it for pretty much all my river, loch and sea fishing on my 6wt tcx. I'm currently using it with 5ft airflo poly leaders and then attaching a two fly or single fly straight fluoro leader to it. Turn over is good , but Those poly leaders arenT the most durable and im wondering if their is a better way...
J
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 17/07/2012 at 16:57
I use a 6' 1X Orvis tapered leader which is looped at the thin end and nail knotted to the line. At the fly end I use build whatever I need for dries on the river, usually 4' of 3x then 3' of 4x then 2' of 5x in fair wind conditions. This will vary depnding upon pool / wind size of fly etc.
For lochs with traditionals I will use the same tapered leader and usually level 3x to give an overall leader length of about 14'.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Jonathan Kerr on 17/07/2012 at 21:33
Thanks for that Ben. I'll give those Orvis tapered leaders a shot. I found this link online which I think is the ones you mean?...
I use a 6' 1X Orvis tapered leader which is looped at the thin end and nail knotted to the line. At the fly end I use build whatever I need for dries on the river, usually 4' of 3x then 3' of 4x then 2' of 5x in fair wind conditions. This will vary depnding upon pool / wind size of fly etc.
Hi Ben,
What kind of leader setup would you recommend for me on the 4 wt ?
Cheers,
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 18/07/2012 at 13:13
Hi Lindsay,
I'd still stick to something fairly chunky as the SLX likes something to turn over. Something with a butt of about 0.024 or 0.025" and about 6' in length tapered to 2X then build from there as above.
I do the above as I nail knot the leader on, if I used loops I would change tapered leader for different set ups.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 18/07/2012 at 13:24
Cheers Ben. I am finding nail knotted leaders are working better for me than the loops. Do you use a loop at the termination of the tapered leader (then tie the tippet on to this) ?
Cheers,
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 18/07/2012 at 13:29
Hi Lindsay,
I perfection loop the end of the tapered then perfection loop the tippet and loop to loop them together, rest of the leader is put together with 3 turn water knots.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 18/07/2012 at 13:36
Cheers Ben, will give that a try.
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 22/07/2012 at 01:39
Barrio SLX #4 R-O-C-K-S !! :z14
Orange colour no spooky the fish either :z16 See Don thread for SLX 'christening' ! Confidence remains high :z4
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 30/11/2012 at 22:31
Hi folks The Barrio SLX is now available in WF3F in both orange and olive head versions :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Kevin Muir on 04/12/2012 at 12:35
Hi Mike
The #3 SLX arrived on Monday, super fast service as usual.
I will get it spooled tonight and be able to get out at the weekend for a quick play with it.
Thanks
Kev.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 05/12/2012 at 00:00
3wt arrived today, thanks Mike. Can't wait to photograph it in some girly arty way :X2 :z7 :z4
Iain
Great stuff Iain :z4 :z4 :z4 :X3
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Kevin Muir on 19/12/2012 at 11:43
Hi Mike
I have had the #3 SLX for a few weeks now and have tried it on a few different rods.
First a little bit of background on why I use a #3 rod.
I bought this line with the hope that it would load my 10' #3 Marryat quickly at short range both on the river nymphing and especially for light line float tubing on lochs where the average size of the fish is quite small on many of the more remote hill lochs on the west coast. A long rod is perfect for fishing from the tube but often I have felt overgunned with a #5 rod. I have been using the #4 Helios 10' #4 for a few seasons and have been very happy with this outfit matched to a #4 SLX but always hankered for the same rod in a #3 line rating.
I have had a Marryat 10'#3 rod for a few years, I bought it as a dual purpose rod, nymphing and spiders on the river and a light line loch rod, great fun with 8 oz fish. I always struggled to get a perfect line for this rod, I needed a line for fishing at fairly short range, The arrival of the #3 SLX was just what I was looking for, it loaded this rod just as I was hoping it would, with a slightly softer tip the Marryat worked well at very short range but would still cope at medium range casts, think tubing for trout here. This rod was never designed for casting more than medium range but for tubing for trout with the SLX line it will be just great. As usual, on the river, the SLX performed as they always do, very very well.
Ben told me of the impending arrival of the #3 Helios2 in late summer, as soon as I heard about this rod I ordered one for approval as soon as they arrived in the UK. I was initially told it would be late March 2013 which was a heck of a long time to wait but the Trout close season was fast approaching and I still had the Marryat for the odd trip after Grayling.
I had read the review Paul Procter compilled about the new 10'#3 Helios2 and that only made me want to get my hands on this rod even more, it sounded perfect for a lot of the trout fishing I do both river and loch.
Well Mr Dixon pulled out all the stops and managed to get hold a demo rod for me to have a quick play, It was with a little sese op apprehention that I strung it up with the #3 SLX, will the rod and line combo be all that I was hoping and expecting it to be, oh yes and then some. Having the SLX #3 allowed me to compare the Marryat Tactical and the Helios2 side by side, both being 10' rods. Chalk and cheese springs to mind.
The Helios2 is a fishing rod that will do just about everything I need in a light loch rod (sensible weather of course), matched to the #3 SLX it is just the type of outfit I have been looking to get hold of for many years, a rod that will cast a decent line but still give you loads of fun with small trout, wow what a rod. I was able to see the backing knot at my feet many times when playing with it on grass just to see what the outfit would do, both rod and line are simply stunning, As soon Ben takes delivery of a 10' #3 Helios2 I will sorted for next season, I can't wait.
This is the light line outfit of my dreams, thanks for producing a great product Mike, it is often a area where manufacturers and anglers over look the small details like profile etc. This line is just spot on for normal range casts with a team of flies, I used the #4 SLX last season on my 10' #4 and was more than happy with it, with the #3 SLX now being available, I can see many people trying the SLX on their #3 rod to see if it will make them use their lighter rods more often.
When you change from a regular WF line to a SLX you really notice the difference the SLX profile makes, especially in the lighter line weights, I tried this and was very surprised at how different the rods felt with a standard WF3 line. I tried the SLX on shorter rods as well, I have a 8' #3 rod I use on my local river which is quite small, the #3 SLX was just perfect on this too.
If anyone has a #3 rod and you just feel that something is not just right about the outfit, I would definately keep the SLX on the list of possible lines to try out on your rod.
It never ceases to amaze me how one rod will just not work with one line but will be transformed with another, for me this was the SLX #3.
Thanks from a very happy customer (waiting patiently for his new rod).
Kevin.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 19/12/2012 at 11:54
Awesome feedback .... Thanks Kevin :z16
I'm really pleased that you like the line!
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 19/12/2012 at 13:07
Kevin, :z16, :) and :z18
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Eddie Sinclair on 19/12/2012 at 23:53
Kevin, I recently purchased the 4 wt slx and the 6 wt slx but a combination of work commitments and crap weather have prevented me from test driving them. Also I was talking to Ben about a 10 foot rod for tubing recently as I spend a lot of time in Assynt and in Durness. If the 3wt helios and the slx are as good as you say, I am going to have to buy yet another rod, i cannot wait for next season. Many thanks for an excellent post.
Eddie.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Steven Sinclair on 20/12/2012 at 02:34
Kevin, I recently purchased the 4 wt slx and the 6 wt slx but a combination of work commitments and crap weather have prevented me from test driving them. Also I was talking to Ben about a 10 foot rod for tubing recently as I spend a lot of time in Assynt and in Durness. If the 3wt helios and the slx are as good as you say, I am going to have to buy yet another rod, i cannot wait for next season. Many thanks for an excellent post.
Eddie.
Get the 9' 9" peregrine fixed and stop spending my inheritance! Lol
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 20/12/2012 at 09:31
Quote
If the 3wt helios and the slx are as good as you say,
They are, stunning combination :cool:
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 20/12/2012 at 14:21
I was lucky enough to have a cast with this outfit along with Kev and Ben. Not long enough a go and in the company of Ben and Kev my casting skills will have looked shabby, but, I can only really say one thing...
Yes Please!
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Eddie Sinclair on 20/12/2012 at 22:40
Get the 9' 9" peregrine fixed and stop spending my inheritance! Lol
Son, this could be part of your inheritance, when I pop my clogs you will get some nice fishing gear.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 20/12/2012 at 23:06
Bit off topic but regarding the rod......
I was a bit underwhelmed by one of the Helios 2 protos I tried but the 103 is simply fantastic, absolutely the best rod of that configuration I have tried and the SLX really works well on it. Will be a very nice nymphing / spider rod or great for trout from the boat or tube.
Just need a Barrio #9 & #10 to go on my Helios 2 909 & 910 now :grin
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Euan Innes on 21/12/2012 at 08:03
Quote
Just need a Barrio #9 & #10 to go on my Helios 2 909 & 910 now
Yes please!!!! :z16
:z1
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 21/12/2012 at 08:30
3wt SLX christened in extreme conditions yesterday. Belter of a line Mike :z16.
No need for any other line in this weight category.
Iain
Great stuff Iain .... I'm really pleased that you like the line! :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 23/12/2012 at 17:19
I think I need to get the SLX #3 out for a cast with the LC903 rod :cool:
Cheers Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Euan Innes on 23/12/2012 at 21:14
Before you do that Mike, how about designing a #9 SLX for next year? :z14 Something that will take a set of sinking tips and chuck a small tube perhaps? Limited run if you want....
Please please please.... :z14 :z14 :z14 :z14
:z1
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 23/12/2012 at 21:44
i'd like a 12wt please ! :z4 :z4 :z4
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Eddie Sinclair on 23/12/2012 at 23:29
Make mine a 10.
Eddie :z16
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Steven Sinclair on 23/12/2012 at 23:45
I'll take a 9, 10 & 13!
Cheers
Steven
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 24/12/2012 at 00:03
Hi guys :z16
The SLX #7 and #8 lines fish polyleaders and small tubes well :cool:
I like the versatility of polyleaders and I have used my Orvis Access 9ft #7 with an SLX #7 for salmon fishing on the upper River Don, I would normally roll and Spey cast up there and this outfit suits me really well. My leaders for this are Rio Versileaders and I carry the following: 7ft 12lb 1.5ips 7ft 12lb 2.6ips 7ft 12lb 3.9ips 7ft 12lb 5.6ips 7ft 12lb 7.0ips
We also have DH salmon lines under development :wink
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Peter McCallum on 24/12/2012 at 00:23
The SLX #7 and #8 lines fish polyleaders and small tubes well :cool:
I'll second that Mike, does it really well
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Euan Innes on 24/12/2012 at 09:56
Quote
The SLX #7 and #8 lines fish polyleaders and small tubes well
But then I'd have to buy another rod... :z4
:z1
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Hamish Young on 03/01/2013 at 10:19
Had my first 'chuck' of the 3wt SLX on the Helios 2 10' #3wt in the afternoon of New Years day. I would have had a cast in the morning but I was feeling a bit 'wooden' :z7 Kindly, Kev passed said 10' 3wt back to Ben with Kevs' own #3wt SLX line (see a page back for Kevs' review). Ben in turn had brought it up with him for me to have a try at some point during the recovery from Hogmanay....... :shock
There being no comparison rod in the original Helios range I was keen to give it a try. Nice rod. Very very nice rod. The difficulty comes with the line. The trouble is, the SLX is so good (and really, it is) it just 'works' at whatever you try and do with it. That's not a criticism folks, it's deserved praise. The SLX really is that good. I can't see past it. Amongst other casts and stuff what really impressed was performance into a fairly stiff breeze - it fairly zipped into the wind. Impressive. For a 3wt :? Deeply, deeply impressive.
I can see why Kev has an order in for said Helios2, nice outfit. Come the season Kev I hope you might be persuaded to let me have a chuck in a fishing situation..... when it comes to the line I've said before that I can't see past it. I stand by that. I don't think it really matters what weight you need, you just need an SLX in your life. Simples :z16
H :z3
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 27/02/2013 at 14:29
Thanks for the Olive #4 SLX received this morning fast as heck as usual Mike ! Colour looks great, can't wait to cover a troot with it.....soon now ! :z16
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Brian McGlashan on 13/03/2013 at 16:58
Line arrived as Promised. It is good to come across a Fair ,Honest trader who delivers a product that does what it says on the tin :z18.
Anything I can do in the future, just call.
Very Best Regards
Brian McGlashan
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 13/03/2013 at 17:11
Hi Brian,
Thanks for letting me know that the line arrived safely, I hope you spend many enjoyable hours on the water with it :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Brian McGlashan on 14/03/2013 at 21:15
Full day Tuition Today and I used the 5# SLX exclusively. Two rods with different actions Sage One 9ft and loop aeg 9ft I am mentoring a guy for the gaic assessment and the line excelled at all tasks. Ok the distance cast posed a bit of a problem but with less of a carry and more of a shoot it worked. I think the 6# would have made it easier for him,but we don't want that :z4 I use the Loop opti(old model) and Greys platinum for usual
With the head length + rod + leader it worked out perfect as most of the casts are in the 40 to 50ft range. I used a Super Yamame Flat Butt Leader 4x cut to just a tad over 9ft, so nothing special there.
It really was the line for the job and was very stable in the air, speys were a joy plus it was easy to see. A while ago I decided if I was trying lines , rods,reels,waders or anything tackle wise, I would always tell the truth good or bad.
Tomorrow I fish with it :z16 and Sunday a full day Teaching.
Many Thanks Mike, the Guy should be contacting you soon.
Regards
Brian
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 14/03/2013 at 21:47
Thanks for the great feedback Brian :z16
Hope you have an enjoyable day on the water tomorrow :cool:
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 15/03/2013 at 10:27
Hi Brian,
I'm not sure what your syllabus requires but I'd say the #6 would be a safer bet than the #5 for an exam.
If I was ever to resit the AAPGAI masters test I would use the SLX #6 on my 906 TF Helios 1, when I sat I used that rod with a Wulff nymph taper. The casts on the masters test were always in my mind when we were testing the prototypes. I think Bernd Ziesche used the SLX #7 when he passed his AAPGAI Masters last autumn and I think most of the successful candidates at last years SGAIC exams also used the SLX.
Your findings on the distances are interesting, seems like you've got the line worked out mate. When fishing I am rarely presenting a fly at more than 50 - 60' and when I do need to hit the upper end of that range, it is rare that I have space to carry line to get there so something that allows a good shoot from a fairly short carry is a bonus, also, reducing required number of false casts has to be a good thing. The line was never really intended to be used at more than 85' from feet to fly, it will do 100'+ but if that was my requirement I would use a GT125. For fairly close stuff I like something that gives me some feel and will always straighten the leader, I usually fish fairly long leaders and where I fish it is usually bloody windy. Despite what the profile picture of the line my imply (totally rear end biased), the compound tapering and weight distribution in the head allows good feel at short range without compromising roll & Spey casting ability. It is definitely more stable on any cast than the Opti and smoother than the TT Nymph in the air. I'll be interested to hear how you get on with it when you fish it today.
I use the SLX for distance practice tune ups, it will carry long but you have to be very, very smooth and everything has to be right, stroke length, haul timing etc so it is good for honing that stuff.
Since the first prototype arrived I have been using the SLX for teaching, makes life very easy. Rolls well and gives good feel on overheads with a short length out of the tip. For me, getting the "feel" of a good cast is important, the SLX helps with this and the colour change is really useful for making casts repeatable and consistent. I used to use a short heavy shooting head for teaching hauls but the SLX does this fine so it means one less spool to carry around.
Your honesty is appreciated.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Brian McGlashan on 15/03/2013 at 15:17
Hi Ben, Fished the river Leven(Fife) Fish :z8 Me :grin. The line fished great,downstream wind, although not strong it posed no problem. I had Nymphs and dries on. One of the guys I was with is a bit of a Line tart so I told him It was a prototype for a big company,once he was converted I told him the truth. The other Guy was already going to buy one. Lovely line and I have no problems recommending it.
The Assessment is the Gaic and as I said in my post he would have been better with the 6# infact I have done all my Assessments using a 6# set up. But I can only advise people and If they don't take that advice and stick to a 5#, well you know the rest.
When I teach I like to have a 5# and a 6# but I have 2 6# Loop opti's to get through.
Best Regards.
Brian
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Loxiafan on 15/03/2013 at 15:48
What bit of the Fife Leven do you fish Brian ? I grew up in Glenrothes and learned to fly fish on the Leven around the town, Cabbagehall, Leslie and up as far as Auchmuir Bridge, occasionally the cut :z16 This was in the 70's and 80's mind ! Is it worth a cast these days ?
I'm a fan of the SLX too (to keep on topic) but my casting is no up to you guys level and finesse :oops
Lindsay
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: The Bankie on 17/03/2013 at 16:48
Hi there , new to the form but though i would say something about the SLX line . Had a lesson with Ben Dixon today and found the line very easy to cast even with the wind blowing hard and raining at the same time was using Hydros rod with 4weight line , now all i have to do is hook a nice fish with it . Good times ahead and plenty of tight lines hopefully .
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 17/03/2013 at 16:52
Hi Robert Welcome to the forum :z16
Not much of a day for being out there, but good to see that you enjoyed your lesson and liked the SLX :cool:
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: cmac on 20/03/2013 at 20:31
I have a Redington CPS 8'6" 4wt that's in need of a line and I think the SLX will fit the bill nicely. My question is: If you could only get one line for this rod, would you get the #4 as per the rod recommendation, or would you underline it with a #3? Thanks, Ciaran.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 20/03/2013 at 20:40
Hi Ciaran, Welcome to the forum :z16
A #4 for a #4 :wink
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: cmac on 20/03/2013 at 20:55
Thanks Mike,
Good to be here. And thanks for the recommendation.
Now if I could just be so cheeky as to hijack my own thread.... I have a Sportfish 10' 6/7 wt IM6 Harrison blank that I like to use on the calmer evenings on the lake. The softer action suits my lazy style of casting, what can I say. Would you think a 6 or a 7 SLX would be the choice here, or is this more a rod for the GT125? Mostly medium range fishing to rising fish, but the usual bit of random water searching when the conditions demand it.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 20/03/2013 at 21:05
My personal choice for that would probably be a GT125 #6 ...... but let's see what the forum members suggest? :wink
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: cmac on 20/03/2013 at 21:06
Excellent. I'll hold off ordering till the jury is in. No point wasting two stamps :wink
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Hamish Young on 20/03/2013 at 21:33
I'd have said the SLX or the GT90 myself, both would suit a relaxed style and softer rod IMHO. Of the two I'd have the SLX first as I think it's unsurpassed as a fishing line.
As to 6 or a 7wt line then I would probably opt for the 7 myself but - horses for courses - much depends on what you're fishing for and with what tactics etc etc. What line(s) are you using on that rod at the minute :?
H :cool:
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: cmac on 20/03/2013 at 21:42
I've used a #7 GT90, an old #6 Hardy DT and an ancient #7 Cortland 444. Probably favoured the Hardy, but I am only one season back fishing after a 20 year hiatus so wouldn't rate my casting skills very highly just yet :wink
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 20/03/2013 at 23:07
Hi Ciaran,
What is your definition of "medium range" in feet from your position to the fly, what length of leader do you typically fish and what is the greatest amount of line you would want to lift from the water into a back cast without stripping in? Also, do you double haul?
On the Redington I'd use a #4 SLX
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: cmac on 20/03/2013 at 23:32
Hi Ben,
A #4 SLX for the Redington it is! Regarding the Harrison rod I'd normally have something like a 12ft leader (tapered copolymer + tippet) to a single fly. "Medium range" for me is probably somewhere between 40 and 60 ft. Having learned to cast with double taper lines and always fishing from boats on Loughs, I grew up expecting to lift whatever length the bamboo rod du jour could handle (always a #6 DT regardless of the rod!!) and reposition in front of the latest rising trout. Now that I do more bank fishing on relatively small stillwaters I have learned the error of my ways and often find myself cursing the lack of back casting distance available, so do tend to strip in more line than I may have done in the past. Similarly my "double haul" is a work in progress (I was fly fishing for many years before I actually saw anyone double hauling. I'm pretty sure that the generation who taught me to cast a fly would have frowned upon such energetic casting during the genteel practice of spent gnat fishing :wink ).
Thanks, Ciaran.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 21/03/2013 at 00:10
Hi Ciaran,
All that makes sense. If back casting space is a problem and you are only looking to hit 60' from feet to fly then the SLX should be fine for the Harrison. 10' of rod, 33' of head a few feet of running line shot and a 12' leader will get you to 60' with no problem. Not sure where you are based but there is an Orvis / Barrio demo day at Haddo on 14th April, come along to that with your rod and try a few lines if you can.
Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 21/03/2013 at 00:41
Good questions Ben, based on Ciaran's reply I think I would agree and suggest the SLX :cool:
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: cmac on 21/03/2013 at 00:52
I'd love to make the demo day, but I'm afraid it's a little too far from Co. Clare (West of Ireland) for a day trip!
At the 60' range, will there be much of a difference between the GT and the SLX? And of course my bank fishing is probably going to demand getting better at presenting beyond the 60' range at which point the GT125 becomes the more likely suitor?
(if only budget were of no concern).
Thanks, Ciaran
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Noel Kelly on 21/03/2013 at 06:10
Hi Ciaran Cant advise on the line but interested in where you will be fishing? I'm from Clare myself :z16
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 21/03/2013 at 11:37
I am not going to dissagree with the casting/line gurus here as they have forgotton more than I know, but I have been using Harrison blanks for a good number of years now and know the Sportfish blank pretty well.
As you say, it would be classed as a slow blank by modern standards, but despite its "bend", it recovers pretty quick.
I used a GT125 on one of them (#9 on a 9/10 rod) and it/I loved it. It was extremely relaxed and easy to cast with and just felt "right". It was easy to carry a fair amount of line and there was no need to "shoot" for the horizon, just let the line go and off it went. Presentation was nice as well (for a #9!)
I also used a WF #9 Airflo that cast well but just did not feel right. I had to work a little more with that line, and shoot a lot of line, which the softer Harrison does not really like.
Lastly I tried a DT 10 on it, just for sh!ts and giggles, and it was horrid. Felt very overloaded.
I built a 5/6 weight version for a mates dad and he used a Lee Wulff Triangle Taper line, saying it cast lovely, so an SLX on a river would be nice as the action lends itself to spey casting.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 21/03/2013 at 15:13
I used a GT125 on one of them (#9 on a 9/10 rod) and it/I loved it. It was extremely relaxed and easy to cast with and just felt "right". It was easy to carry a fair amount of line and there was no need to "shoot" for the horizon, just let the line go and off it went. Presentation was nice as well (for a #9!)
a 9wt Barrio line ? :roll
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Ben Dixon on 21/03/2013 at 15:15
It's Rob Marc. He means the GT140 :z4
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: cmac on 21/03/2013 at 20:15
Thanks everyone for the comprehensive responses. In rough order of response:
Hamish, this SLX line really is getting such rave reviews I might be a real numpty to get anything else for the Harrison. It's certainly a #4 SLX for the Redington. I appreciate what your saying about using a #7, but I'm not sure that the combination of me and rod is best served by the larger weight based on honest reflection of my efforts last season with the #7 GT90. Decisions, decisions :z8
Cuileog, rather than completely hijack my first thread even further I pm'd you about the few places I've managed to fish in Clare last season. Any recommendations gratefully received :X2 (by the way, if anyone else is interested I can post, but it really doesn't compare to what's on your doorstep in Scotland).
Rob, great to here that you've found mike's lines to be a good fit for the Harrison rods. I'll be using this rod almost exclusively on stillwaters so the recommendation for the GT125 over the SLX might be the way to go. Interestingly it tallies with Mike's initial thoughts (currently amended to SLX). As you say, a "slow" rod by modern standards but quite a bit faster than anything I used before the great sabbatical (a Warnants of Dublin early graphite with lines Fuji guides that really should have been on a float rod IMHO).
Ben & Mike, thanks for spending so much time on a single line query... very much appreciated. Of course, in an ideal world I'd simply order a GT25 and an SLX for the Harrison, but unavoidable capital costs here on the farm have been pretty harsh this year so I think it's one line for the time being. Quite a surreal experience to look at the cattle and mentally divide them into fishing tackle rather than steaks :X2
I can see this ending in a coin toss :z4
Thanks, Ciaran
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 22/03/2013 at 08:35
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: cmac on 09/04/2013 at 23:34
Right!!! Sorry about the absence, but the cattle have made it through their annual testing and the necessary (and extremely urgent) fencing seems to to keeping man and beast at bay. Just enough headspace to think about fishing again.
All set to place the order for the #4 SLX for the Redington, but which line for the Harrison? If there are no major objections from the gallery I was thinking of the GT125 for no other reason than I imagine it will bear a comfortable resemblance to the DT#6's I cut my teeth on.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Hamish Young on 10/04/2013 at 09:44
still leaves you undecided on which line to chose Ciaran. It's a bugger when the coin ends up on an edge, sitting on the fence in a neutral undecided sort of way :wink If the 125 is what you fancy then you should buy that :z16 There you go, decision made :z12
H :cool:
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 18/11/2013 at 12:32
Some very kind comments on Callum Conner's Phishfingerz blog: http://www.phishfingerz.com/barrio-slx-fly-line-review/ (http://www.phishfingerz.com/barrio-slx-fly-line-review/)
Thank you Callum :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 22/02/2014 at 17:12
Zander on the Barrio SLX #8 fly line ..... looks like fun :z16
Not what the line was designed to do, but it seems to be coping ..............
nope, but as Akos wrote, cutting back the tip +/- 60 cm makes it work really well. i did this on my 8wt and it's a peach with heavier/bigger flies. :z16
best though is the 'falling in' part... :z4 :z4 :z4
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 22/02/2014 at 18:43
best though is the 'falling in' part... :z4 :z4 :z4
We've all been there Marc :z4
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Marc Fauvet on 22/02/2014 at 23:28
yeah, but we usually don't write about it... :z4
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 24/02/2014 at 08:04
Can we have a Zander on the box please Mike ;)
I hope to be fishing a certain lake in Surrey in the near future for Zander on the fly...maybe I need to rethink my gear.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Campbell S on 12/07/2014 at 13:57
Fished the SLX 5 lastnight with streamers for the first time, wow that lines really gets them out there, very handy in the darkness. Once I got used to the lines taper it was bank shots all evening. Even managed a fish or two..
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 14/07/2014 at 15:13
Great stuff, very pleased that you like your line :z16
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: alex2 on 17/08/2014 at 01:51
I bought a #8 SLX several years ago when I first started fly fishing and put it away and tried all the popular lines and became better at casting. Yesterday I line up with the SLX and wow, what have I been missing.
I just wish the running line was a little longer as I tend to shoot backing out sometimes. Q: how line is this line?
Again, an awesome line.
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Rob Brownfield on 18/08/2014 at 07:34
All the info yu need :) http://www.flylineshop.com/barrio-slx.html
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 18/08/2014 at 09:24
Thanks for putting in the link Rob :z16
I'm really pleased that you like your line Alex :cool:
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: alex2 on 18/09/2014 at 09:44
Another one just purchased. I use this for saltwater with the tip level trimmed. This has to be the easiest line to cast full stop. Love it to bits. Backing slapping the fore grip every time :z3
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 21/12/2015 at 15:03
For those that have been waiting ...... the orange headed Barrio SLX is back :z16
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Andy Wren on 15/03/2017 at 13:45
Just fired my new 5wt slx on a elderly orvis 10 footer for a #6 . just fab .easy casting speys nicely and seems to handle long Cove style buzzer leaders beautifully! Thanks Mike !
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 15/03/2017 at 14:25
Excellent .... I'm really pleased that you like your line Andy :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Kev Graham on 06/06/2017 at 15:42
Hi Mike,
WF8F
Any idea when these may be back in stock, preferably of the Olive variety?
Regards
Kevin
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Kev Graham on 09/06/2017 at 07:43
Nothing?
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 09/06/2017 at 08:48
Sorry Kev, I missed your post :oops
The olive SLX lines are on the machines early next week, so all things going well ...... I should receive them the following week.
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Kev Graham on 09/06/2017 at 11:23
Hi Mike
That`s great, thanks for the update. I will hang off until then, i have heard very good reports on that line for single hand sea trout and salmon work. Take it at that line weight they will turn over a set of standard poly`s?
Will you update on this thread when they are available...? either way put one past for me please before they go like hot cakes....like your witch lines it seems :cool:
K Regards
Kev
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 09/06/2017 at 11:31
Hi Kev
Yes, no problem with polyleaders. The next batch of Switch lines should hopefully be arriving soon too.
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Terry Coging on 05/02/2018 at 17:47
I have been using Mallard wf floaters in various weights for a while and been quite pleased. I am about to replace the 5 wt. Most of my fishing is on a 'top of the water' reservoir. I use teams of three dries, nymphs or a mix as a washing line. Is it worth trying an SLX to improve presentation? The Mallard is good for presentation but always looking for improvement. Cheers TC
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 05/02/2018 at 18:40
The SLX is nice Terry ....... give it a try and don't rule out the GT90 :z16
Best wishes Mike
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Terry Coging on 06/02/2018 at 09:17
Thanks Mike - just read up the description of the GT90 and it sounds just right, so ordered one :wink
Title: Re: Barrio SLX Fly Line
Post by: Mike Barrio on 05/02/2024 at 19:53
Boxing up SLX olive WF5F and WF6F Lines a couple of days ago.
This was the first stage in bringing back the alternative olive coloured head option.
The WF7F and WF8F have arrived today and are now on the shelf/webshop :z16