I've always been a Scientific Anglers guy. I fish SA Sharkskin on three rods and SA Mastery series on another two. This Orvis line has exceeded my expectations. Right out of the box I noticed it was thinner than my other 5 weight lines. I double checked my make sure I had the right size. I did. I wondered how a thinner line would work on the water . . . but I was pleasantly surprised. I like the thin diameter as it lays out more subtly on the water than my other lines of thicker diameter. Smaller diameter means less surface area also, so the line floats and shoots really well also. The welded loop is still holding strong, though it's only been a few months. Most of my welded loops have been cut off and replaced by a nail knot. Hopefully this one keeps holding strong.
My first outing with the line was on the Provo River, and it worked great loading my rod for all sorts of casts. We caught a bunch of fish and the line got the job done. The line feels slick, which I like to think helps it shoot through the guides and repel dirt and grime. I've used the line now for everything from tiny dries to stripping streamers and it has performed great.
My only qualms with the line is that it has a lot of line memory in cold water. The line stays coiled up even after I've peeled line off the reel. As you may know, this is a pain when casting and shooting line, and when reeling up the slack. Also, the tip has started to sink. It didn't the first few outings, but now it requires some assistance from floatant like Aquel to remain on top. I've cleaned the line, but the tip still sinks.
If there's any other drawback, it may be that the line only comes in one color (Mist Green, which appears to be more yellowish than green). The line is labeled with the size (Line ID) and comes in recycled packaging that is 100% compostable. Props to Orvis for helping protect our natural resources and doing their part. For $59, this is a decent line that gets the job done and will come through for you in a pinch.
