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Home Fly Line RIO FLYLINE BACKING 20LB 200YDS PURPLE Review: A Comprehensive Analysis
RIO FLYLINE BACKING 20LB 200YDS PURPLE Review: A Comprehensive Analysis

RIO

RIO FLYLINE BACKING 20LB 200YDS PURPLE Review: A Comprehensive Analysis

4.5

Category

Fly Line

Published

April 04, 2026

ASIN

B07T75XRHP

Rating

4.5/5.0

Fly Line 4.5 Rating
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RIO FLYLINE BACKING 20LB 200YDS PURPLE Review: A Comprehensive Analysis

Introduction: The RIO Flyline Backing

The RIO FLYLINE BACKING 20LB 200YDS PURPLE is a fly fishing line backing designed to supplement your fly line, providing extra line capacity on your fly reel. This is particularly important when targeting fish that may make long runs or when fishing in deep water where a significant amount of line is needed to reach the fish. This backing is intended for anglers who need reliable, durable, and cost-effective line support for their fly fishing endeavors. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, understanding the importance of backing can significantly improve your fishing experience and prevent costly line breakage.

The 20lb test strength and 200-yard length make this backing suitable for a wide range of applications. The purple color is a popular choice, allowing anglers to easily distinguish the backing from their fly line. This is especially helpful when retrieving line quickly during a fight. The choice of backing significantly impacts the overall performance and longevity of your fly fishing setup.

Key Features:

  • Brand: RIO
  • Line Type: Backing
  • Test Strength: 20 lb
  • Length: 200 yards
  • Color: Purple

Pros:

  • Strong and Durable: The 20lb test strength provides excellent reliability, minimizing the risk of breakage during intense fights with large fish. This backing is built to withstand the strain of powerful runs.
  • Affordable Price Point: At $11.19, the RIO FLYLINE BACKING offers excellent value for its length and strength. This makes it an accessible option for anglers on a budget without compromising on quality.
  • Sufficient Length: The 200-yard length provides ample capacity for most fly fishing situations. This allows you to comfortably pursue fish that may require extended line retrieval without running out of backing.
  • Easy to Identify: The bright purple color provides excellent visibility, making it easy to monitor the amount of line retrieved during a fight, a crucial feature in fly fishing.
  • Smooth Casting: While primarily for backing, it allows for smooth transitions between backing and fly line, minimizing disruption during the cast.

Cons:

  • Limited Color Options: While purple is a popular choice, the availability of limited color options might not satisfy all anglers' preferences. Some might prefer a more neutral or less visible color for specific fishing scenarios.
  • Potential for Knotting: Like any backing line, there is a potential for knotting during retrieval, especially in colder or damper conditions. This can be mitigated with careful handling and proper spool maintenance.

Who Should Buy the RIO FLYLINE BACKING?

This backing is an ideal choice for anglers who need a reliable and affordable option for their fly fishing reels. Its 20lb test strength and 200-yard length make it suitable for a broad range of applications, from smaller streams to larger rivers and lakes. The bright purple color is beneficial for anglers who value visibility during fish fights.

Beginners will find the RIO FLYLINE BACKING easy to work with and cost-effective. More experienced anglers will appreciate its durability and reliability, knowing it can handle the demands of challenging fishing situations. This makes it a versatile option across different experience levels and fishing styles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  • Q: Is this backing suitable for saltwater fishing? A: While it's not specifically designed for saltwater, its 20lb test strength offers reasonable resistance to saltwater corrosion. However, regular rinsing with freshwater after use is highly recommended for longevity.
  • Q: How does this compare to other backing lines on the market? A: Compared to some higher-priced premium backings, the RIO FLYLINE BACKING provides excellent value for its price. While it might not possess some of the specialized features of premium lines (e.g., coated for extra smoothness), it still offers strong performance for the majority of anglers.
  • Q: What size fly reel is this backing compatible with? A: This backing is suitable for a variety of fly reels; however, it’s always best to consult your specific fly reel’s capacity guidelines to ensure compatibility.

Conclusion: Price and Performance

The RIO FLYLINE BACKING 20LB 200YDS PURPLE offers a compelling combination of strength, length, and affordability. Its bright color aids visibility during retrieves, making it a functional choice for various fly fishing needs. While limited color options might be a drawback for some anglers, the overall performance and value make it a strong contender in the fly line backing market. The need for careful handling to prevent knotting should also be considered.

Expert Verdict

The RIO FLYLINE BACKING provides excellent value for its price, offering sufficient strength and length for most fly fishing situations. While not a premium option, it's a solid choice for anglers seeking dependable backing without breaking the bank.

Advantages

1

Strong and Durable

2

Affordable Price Point

3

Sufficient Length

4

Easy to Identify

5

Smooth Casting

Limitations

1

Limited Color Options

2

Potential for Knotting

Expert Verdict

The RIO FLYLINE BACKING provides excellent value for its price, offering sufficient strength and length for most fly fishing situations. While not a premium option, it's a solid choice for anglers seeking dependable backing without breaking the bank.

User Reviews

3 reviews

3

Total Reviews

From verified buyers

Verified Purchase Reviews
J
J_Anderson Verified Apr 06, 2026
3.5

Way too expensive for what it is... you can get synthetic gear oil for half this price at any auto shop. Total rip off.

S
Sarah_88 Verified Apr 06, 2026
5.0

It's okay. Very big which is nice but it takes forever to dry in the dryer. Idk if I'd buy another one for the price.

A
ArtsyAbby Verified Apr 05, 2026
5.0

I finally caved and bought the 5x7 Gelli plate after seeing so many videos on tiktok. Honestly worth every penny! It's super squishy and picks up every tiny detail from my stencils. I used to try making my own gelatin plates at home but they mold so fast and smell gross, this is way better since it's reusable. Only thing is

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