First Impressions of Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line
The Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line promises to be a reliable workhorse for anglers who need to get their flies down in the water column. Scientific Anglers has a long-standing reputation for producing quality fly lines, and the Wet Cel is positioned as an accessible, no-frills option. I was particularly drawn to its claim of being suitable for “all your current fishing necessities,” hoping it would offer the versatility I need for various fishing scenarios.
I needed a dependable sinking line that wouldn’t break the bank for targeting trout in deeper runs and lakes. Cheaper lines often coil and lack the necessary sink rate, while premium lines can be prohibitively expensive for the casual angler. I hoped the Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line would strike a balance between performance and affordability.
The packaging was simple and straightforward. The line itself felt smooth, but initially felt a bit stiffer than some higher-end sinking lines I’ve used. It was charcoal colored, as advertised.
Compared to a premium sinking line like the Rio Deep 3 or an ultra-budget line from an unknown brand, the Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line appeared to be a solid middle ground. The Rio line is noticeably suppler and has a more aggressive sink rate, but costs significantly more. The no-name brand felt cheap and lacked any discernible coating or taper.
I was cautiously optimistic. The Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line seemed well-made for the price, but the real test would be how it performed on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line on a local tailwater known for its deep runs and challenging currents. I paired it with a 6-weight rod and a selection of nymphs and streamers. The water was moderately clear, and the air temperature was around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
The line performed adequately, sinking at a reasonable rate. However, I immediately noticed that it had a tendency to coil, especially in the colder water. I also found it slightly less supple than I prefer, which impacted casting distance and accuracy.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of cracking or significant wear, and the coating seems to be holding. The coiling issue, however, persists, and I find myself needing to stretch the line frequently to minimize tangles.
Durability seems decent, but the line does show minor abrasions after rubbing against rocks. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes most of the grime. Compared to the Rio Deep 3 I’ve used in the past, the Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line doesn’t cast as effortlessly, and the sink rate isn’t as consistent.
Breaking Down the Features of Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line
Specifications
The Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line is a sinking fly line designed for anglers needing to present flies at depth. It’s available in weights from WF3S to WF9S to match a variety of rod sizes. The line is charcoal colored and features a uniform sink rate.
This line’s sink rate allows anglers to target specific depths more effectively. The charcoal color helps to minimize spooking fish in clear water conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line performs its primary function – sinking – adequately. It’s not the fastest sinking line on the market, but it gets the fly down. It has a moderate level of accuracy.
The line’s major weakness is its tendency to coil, which affects casting distance and presentation. The Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line meets expectations for a budget-friendly sinking line, but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price point. The line feels reasonably smooth. However, the stiffness detracts from its overall user-friendliness, particularly for anglers accustomed to more supple lines.
There’s a slight learning curve in managing the coiling tendency. It can be frustrating for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line appears to be reasonably durable. With proper care (cleaning and occasional stretching), it should last a full season of regular use. Maintenance is minimal.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Anglers can customize their setup by using different leaders and tippets based on their fishing conditions. The line is compatible with most standard fly line backing and leader connections.
Pros and Cons of Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line
Pros
- Good value for the price point.
- Adequate sink rate for general sinking line needs.
- Durable construction.
- Compatible with standard fly fishing gear.
- Suitable for beginners looking to experiment with sinking lines.
Cons
- Pronounced coiling tendency.
- Stiffer than premium sinking lines.
- Sink rate not as aggressive as specialized sinking lines.
Who Should Buy Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line?
The Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line is perfect for beginner to intermediate anglers who need a budget-friendly sinking line for general trout and panfish fishing. It’s also a good choice for anglers who occasionally fish deeper water but don’t want to invest in a high-end sinking line. Anglers who primarily fish small streams or who require maximum casting distance should skip this product.
A line dressing designed for sinking lines would be a must-have accessory to help reduce coiling and improve slickness. A line straightener can also be beneficial.
Conclusion on Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line
The Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line is a decent option for anglers on a budget. While it has some drawbacks, such as the coiling tendency and stiffness, it offers acceptable performance for the price. At $39.95, the price is justified for anglers seeking a functional, entry-level sinking line.
I would recommend the Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line to budget-conscious anglers who understand its limitations. If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable sinking line to get started with, give the Scientific Anglers Wet Cel Sinking Fly Line a try.