[SERE Nate]

I bought a Sage XP490-2 and got a package deal with Airflo ridgeline WF5F line and Ross CLA 1.5 reel. The line that I have in it got a small nick in it and it catches the leader once in a while and I'm worried that it might break if I get into a big fish.

I want to get a new line for the rod. I am heading to Bend on Wed and will be using it while I'm there. Should I go with a 4 weight line instead of the 5 weight? What brand works best with this setup? I'm a new fly fisher, but am getting the hang of things. Can probably cast 60 ft with this setup.

 

[troutpocket]

I like a SA GPX WF4F on my 490-2 GLX Classic . . .same vintage and similar action to your XP.

 

[MT_Flyfisher]

I have this rod and use both SA GPX wf4 and wf5 lines on it. The 5 wt is easier to cast, but being heavier, lands a bit heavier on the water.

I have an assortment of Sage rods, and the 4 wt XP is probably my favorite general purpose trout rod.

John

 

[SERE Nate]

I love the rod. Wish it was a 4 piece as I'm packing into a lot of places. Going to try a trout classic in a 3 or 4 weight and see how I like it.

 

[SERE Nate]

As a beginner, should I line up and get the 5 weight or learn to cast the 4 weight?

 

[MT_Flyfisher]

I would probably stick with the 4 to start.

 

[Stonefish]

Either will work.
I'd overline it with a 5 if you want to make quick, shorter accurate casts while floating rivers.
The 5 will help load the rod more quickly.
SF

 

[SERE Nate]

Valid point. I'll be getting a 3 or 4 weight trout classic for small streams. Since my 4 weight is a 2 piece it will be best for floating rivers, lakes, and Rocky Ford.

I'll get a SA GPX wf5

 

[Jerry Metcalf]

I own two of those and use Rio Gold lines. Works great. SA lines are fine too, don't obsess.

 

[typhoon]

Valid point. I'll be getting a 3 or 4 weight trout classic for small streams. Since my 4 weight is a 2 piece it will be best for floating rivers, lakes, and Rocky Ford.

I'll get a SA GPX wf5

What is your required cast length? The GPX is a half weight overlined. Using the 5wt version on a 4wt will likely overpower the rod if you are casting more than 30 feet.
The GPX 4wt is already overlined for that rod. The XP was actually pretty true to its weight designation, unlike the Sage One for example.