How to determine weight of fly line

[Sizer]

I have several unpackaged fly lines, all seem in good nick, supple etc.


Firstly I am a total novice, caught a couple trout before, small yellows and tried for bass on fly, not successful YET.


So I have these spare lines donated to me, I have basically determined forward taper etc from visual inspection ( referring to what seems obvious characteristics ), also plonked them in the pool to check floating ans sinking etc.


How would I go about determining the actual weight of the line ???


this is obviously crucial I understand from the rod pairing, not so sure of importance re the reel weight classification.
This query is more based on interst and fascination and just perhaps I would  be lucky if compatible with my entry level set ups, 4/5, 6 /7.


have checked through the posts and read from some of the more knowledgeable chaps eg WK, hope I haven't missed anything relating to my conundrum.

[Papparoach]

Tricky question, my bet would be for you to cast each line with your set-up hope you have different rods so you can see how the line loads and casts on the different rods.

[travelmember]

Weigh the first 10 metres, excluding the level tip (normally about 50cm)
Wt 3 = 6 grams
wt 4 = 8
5 = 9
6 = 10
7 =12
Roughly..... the original scale was done in grains.

[Sizer]

Wow...that's very interesting, will try get hold of a "sensitive" scale and give it a go


Papparoach considered your option, I'm sure you will feel if it's obviously not right then again being a novice and lacking the finesse of the gurus like Andrew Levy et all could also be a hit and miss guesstimate.


Honestly speaking though I probably would not even tell the difference lol.

[SPARODON]

from a practical point of view, you will have to cast it on your available setups and see if it works for you. you stand a good chance that the lines fall into the category covered by your rods as it is the most popular weights. it will also depend on your rods. i have a very fast action 3weight that loads much better with a 4 weight line. you dont have to put the lines on a reel to test it. take your rod, put your normal reel on it. take the line you want to try, let it lie at your feet, feed it through the eyes, get about 10m out of the eyes, pinch it against the rod, and have a few swings with it. you will quickly see if it is too heavy or too light.
at the end of the day, if you intend using them, it is more important that you are comfortable with them, than if the line rating state you should be.

[SPARODON]

http://www.davidnorwich.com/LineRatings.htm
 
its going to be very difficult to weigh just the first 10 m accurately with the tip and the running line attached. we are talking minute differences of 1 or 2 grams.

[Sizer]

Thanks Sparadon, feedback much in line with Papparoach which is most often the best advice....keep it practical,simple and see what works for you......