How to Choose Your Preferred Running Line for Salmon Fishing

When it comes to salmon fishing, choosing the right running line is one of the simplest—but most important—decisions you’ll make. The right running line affects your distance, control, mending, and how confidently you fish throughout the day.

For most anglers, selecting a preferred running line is a quick and easy process. And if you’re unsure, our team is always here to help you make the perfect choice for your setup.

Where to Begin: How Dexterous Are Your Hands?

The first question we’ll ask when helping you choose a running line is:

How dexterous are your hands, and what matters most—distance or control?

Different running lines suit different styles of fishing. Some offer maximum shooting distance, while others provide better control and handling—especially useful on Scotland’s smaller and medium-sized salmon rivers.

The Two Main Options: Mono Running Line vs Coated Running Line

At Twin Peakes Fly Fishing, we primarily recommend two types of running lines for salmon fishing:

1. RIO GripShooter – For Maximum Distance

The RIO GripShooter is a mono shooting line with a clever twist: the front section is coated, giving you the best of both worlds.

Why anglers love it:

• Mono section shoots incredibly far, lifting off the water with almost zero drag

• Coated handling section makes gripping the line easier, especially when shooting long casts

• Ideal for big open rivers where long-distance casts can make a difference

If you're fishing places like the River Tay, Spey, or other wide Scottish rivers, this setup can transform how easily you reach the far bank.

Potential downsides:

• Working your flies requires a figure-of-eight retrieve, which some anglers find fiddly

• Mono can feel more slippery in cold conditions

• On smaller or enclosed rivers, full mono setups can feel a little “loose” in terms of contact

Still, for pure distance and shootability, mono running lines are incredibly hard to beat.

2. Coated Running Lines – For Maximum Control

If you prefer feel, control, and easier mending, a coated running line may be the better option.

Why coated lines are great:

• They float, making long-distance mending much easier

• Offer better grip and handling for all-day fishing

• Perfect for small to medium Scottish rivers where subtle control of the fly is more important than outright distance

• No need for a figure-of-eight retrieve—simply strip as normal

For anglers who like to “work” their fly—especially in low water conditions—a coated running line gives a more connected feel to the swing.

Potential downsides:

• Slightly more drag on the water than mono

• Won’t shoot quite as far as a dedicated mono running line

But for many salmon anglers, the added control far outweighs any loss in distance.

Distance vs Control: What Matters Most to You?

When choosing a running line for salmon fishing, ask yourself:

• Do I want maximum casting distance?
  → Choose RIO GripShooter (mono + coated handling section)

• Do I want improved line control, feel, and easier mending?
  → Choose a full coated running line

• Do my hands struggle with thin mono in cold weather?
  → A coated line is almost always the better choice

Matching the running line to your fishing style, your river, and your physical comfort is the key to fishing well—and enjoying it.

Still Unsure? Speak to Our Team

Choosing your preferred running line for salmon fishing doesn’t have to be complicated. Our team spends hundreds of days each year fishing Scotland’s rivers, testing lines in real conditions.

If you’d like personalised advice for your rod, river, or casting style, get in touch—we’re always happy to help you choose the perfect running line.