Thinking about the new Airflo Multi-tip lines to cut down on carrying too many spare spools during fishing. They're touted as a total system coming with a floater, clear intermediate, fast-sink, and extra fast-sink, 12-foot heads. Sounds good except for the $99 price. Any fly steelheader had experience or comments on these? Thanks.

I have fished the Rio versitip system for several years and have been very happy with it, plus it is an american owned company unlike airflow.

I've been very happy with my Air-Flo system. Don't think I paid that much for it, but it would be worth it if I had.

I've also been using the Rio Versitip for the past three years. Extremely satisfied and have no reason to even consider changing.

I just bought an 8wt and the flyshop guy put on a Rio Versitip. I was worried about the loop connection sagging or bending but it hasn't been a problem at all. It was pricey (to the tune of $110 or so) but now I've got four different lines to choose from (all fit into a wallet that's smaller than my leader wallet!) and only one reel spool to worry about.

I have heard good things about the Aeroflo and it is a bit cheaper than the Rio. The Rio is also a fine system and you can easily buy their replacement tips if needed. If you don't mind taking a pair of scissors to a new line, you can easily make your own multi-tip system which will save you some bucks and you can customize it to your style and needs. I have done this twice now and have loved the results.

[This message has been edited by Sinktip (edited 04-28-2000).]

Chucknduck,

I must like the concept better than the application. I've been splicing my own lines and shooting heads for 25 years or so, including a number of multi-tip lines. Yet for steelheading, I find that my 15' hi-speed, hi-D tip works for over 90% of my sunk fly fishing that it's about all I ever use. Otherwise, I go to a standard weight forward 10' sink tip or floating line and their attendent extra spools.

As mentioned, however, if you don't care for the price, splice your own lines. It's cheaper, and you get just the tips you want, mixing brands, line weights or whatever.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.

I've been looking at these systems, Does anyone have any feedback on how they cast?