Short answer: Monic makes PVC-free fly lines in Boulder, Colorado. They cast further with less memory, their clear floating lines are genuinely stealthy, and the environmental case behind them is real rather than marketing. After six years of testing gear, they're my first go-to line.

As host of a fly fishing podcast and an angler constantly trying to improve, I've spent the last six years rigorously testing gear and refining my equipment choices. It's not about following trends — it's about understanding what works and what doesn't. That led me to Monic, a brand that stands out for innovation and for its commitment to environmental sustainability.

Honestly, there isn't a line out there you can go badly wrong with these days. But there are ways to steer toward what may work better for you, and here's why I stand behind Monic.

1. PVC-free and safer for the environment

My increasing awareness of my own environmental impact has made me critical of traditional fly lines, which often contain PVC. That material is harmful during production and contributes to pollution as it degrades.

Monic offers a compelling alternative. By choosing their lines I'm not just improving my fishing — I'm contributing to cleaner waterways and healthier ecosystems. Learning about their beginnings and their founder, Bob Goodale, an engineer who envisioned better production methods on a fly fishing trip in Belize, reinforced my trust in their mission. They even run a 100% recyclable programme with a send-back option, which is a genuine commitment rather than a marketing line.

2. Longer, more accurate casts

Monic's lines cast more smoothly thanks to the absence of PVC, which typically causes memory issues like twists and bends. Less line memory means longer, more accurate casts. I've noticed a significant difference, especially when aiming for hard-to-reach spots. Their coating technologies and taper design have been a game-changer, eliminating the frustration of tangles and short casts.

Fly line loaded on a reel beside a river

3. Durability and low memory

These lines are tough. The coatings resist kinking and coiling, which improves lifespan and keeps performance consistent over time. I've put them through the wringer — stepping on them, dragging them, practising casts on rough surfaces — and they've held up remarkably well. Low memory means less time dealing with tangles and more time fishing.

4. Stealthy presentations with clear lines

Stealth can be crucial, and Monic's clear floating lines are practically invisible on the water. They float high and land softly, reducing the chance of spooking fish. That matters to me because I often fish clear, calm water where the slightest disturbance is detrimental. The finesse these lines allow has let me sneak up on fish I'd otherwise have alarmed.

5. Made in the USA

Monic lines are handmade in Boulder, Colorado, and have been since 1995. I have a strong preference for American-made products — they often embody quality and support local economies. Knowing these are crafted by skilled engineers who take pride in their work gives me confidence in their performance and durability.

6. It aligns with how I want to fish

Switching to Monic has been a pivotal part of my gear evolution. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and environmental stewardship aligns with my values as an angler and a podcaster. If you're looking to make a responsible choice that doesn't compromise on performance, they're worth your consideration.

A note on what we stock

To be straight with you: we don't carry Monic in the FFIP shop, so there's nothing for me to sell you here. This is a recommendation, not a sales pitch. If you want their lines, buy them from Monic.

What we do carry, if the stealth argument above is what appeals to you, are clear intermediate sinking lines — the 6wt and 7wt Weight Forward Intermediate Sinking Clear lines from Wild Water. Same principle, different application: a clear line just under the surface for fish that spook at anything they can see.

For floating, sink tip, and full sinking options across the weights, see the full fly lines collection.

And if any of the above raised questions — grain weight, taper, why line matters more than most anglers think — read Understanding Fly Fishing Lines. It covers the full AFFTA weight chart and how rod action changes what you should buy.

Tight lines and wet nets!