I'm a complete beginner—where should I start?

Start with the "Understanding Fly Lines" section in the Academy. It's the engine of all fly fishing—understanding how a line works will give you the foundation for choosing your equipment and improving your cast. Then, the "Casting Techniques" section will guide you from your first roll cast to advanced techniques.

How to choose between a #4, #5 or #6 rod?

The rod number corresponds to the weight of fly line it is designed to cast. A #4 is ideal for small streams and light flies. A #5 is the most versatile—it’s the best-selling size in the world for good reason. A #6 is suitable for larger rivers and bigger fish. If you're a beginner, start with a #5. Our Academy explains all of this in detail for free.

What's the difference between your fly lines?

Every Axon line is built for a specific job. The Perception is our versatile freshwater line — ideal for starting out and progressing. The long-head Windcutter rewards precision and technique. The Impulse and Outbound Short are made to cast big streamers to predators, and the Velocity SW is for saltwater. Not sure? Check out our free guide in the Axon Academy or email us.

How to choose the right reel size?

The reel size should match your rod’s line weight. A 3/5 reel is suitable for #3 to #5 rods, a 5/7 for #5 to #7 rods, and so on. The balance between the rod and reel is important for casting comfort. Our Premier Lancer Complet kit includes pre-calibrated components—everything is already matched for you.

Is Axon Academy really free?

Yes — completely and permanently free. All Axon Academy content is based on years of field practice and teaching experience. We believe that an angler who understands their gear is a better angler — and a more satisfied customer. This is our way of giving you an advantage from the start.

Is the Academy also suitable for experienced anglers?

Absolutely. Even experienced anglers find surprising information in our guides – particularly regarding the actual weight of lines in grains versus the 1961 AFFTA standard, or concepts like overhang and head length. These are notions that very few shops explain clearly.

How do you offer such high-quality equipment at that price?

We sell directly to the consumer, with no distributors or resellers. You buy directly from Axon. This allows us to offer equipment comparable to major brands at a fraction of the price—without compromising on quality or materials.

What is the 5% program for new talent?

For every purchase made on Axon Fly Fishing, 5% of the amount is donated to fly fishing initiation initiatives — primarily for young people and those living with physical or mental challenges, in collaboration with Pêche ADN Initiation. We believe that fly fishing is much more than a hobby — it's a state of mind, a therapy, a connection with nature that can transform a life. Your purchase directly helps open this door to those who need it most. Designed for enthusiasts, by an enthusiast.

Do you deliver internationally?

Yes — we ship worldwide. Usually 5 to 14 business days depending on the destination and carrier. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout.

How long does delivery to Canada take?

Delivery to Canada takes an average of 6 business days — usually 5 to 14 business days depending on the carrier — after order confirmation. Shipping is free on orders of CAD $150 and more.

What happens if I'm not satisfied?

You have 30 days after receipt to request a return of an unused product in its original packaging (prior authorization required; return shipping paid by the customer). A product that is defective or damaged on arrival is replaced or refunded at our expense, after verification. Our rods and reels carry a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects — normal wear, impacts and misuse are not covered. Full details are in our return policy. Questions? Email us at contactinfo@axonflyfishing.com — we reply within 24 hours.

Can you help me choose the right equipment?

That's exactly what we do best. Write to us at contactinfo@axonflyfishing.com describing your situation—experience level, type of fishing envisioned, targeted waterways, and budget—and we will provide a personalized recommendation at no cost. Designed for enthusiasts, by an enthusiast.

Fly Fishing Dacron Backing — Colors, Lengths, 20lb 30lb | Axon Fly Fishing

Dacron Backing 20lb and 30lb

20LB Dacron Backing

20LB Dacron Backing

20LB Dacron Backing

$10.99 CAD
30LB Dacron Backing

30LB Dacron Backing

30LB Dacron Backing

$10.99 CAD

Dacron Backing — The reliable reserve line

Backing is the first line you put on your reel, before the fly line. It fills the spool, allows the fly line to coil in larger loops for better casting, and provides a line reserve when a big fish decides to make a run.

Axon Dacron backing is braided from high-strength polyester — it stretches very little, won't rot, and resists moisture season after season. Available in 20lb and 30lb, in 100 or 300 yards, in 9 colors.

Choosing between 20lb and 30lb

20lb Backing — For Trout and Salmon Reels

The standard strength for the vast majority of freshwater situations. Fine diameter — you get more yards on the reel for the same bulk.

#3/4, #5/6, #7/8 reels
Trout, char, Atlantic salmon, landlocked salmon
100 yards is sufficient for river trout
300 yards recommended for salmon and lake fishing

30lb Backing — For Large Reels and Saltwater

Slightly thicker diameter, superior strength. Essential whenever you risk a long run — pike, saltwater, large salmon.

#7/8, #9/10, #10/11 reels
Pike, Pacific salmon, striped bass, saltwater
100 yards for intermediate reels
300 yards for large saltwater reels

How many yards do I need?

The general rule is to fill the reel spool to about 3mm from the edge. Here is a quick guide:

#3/4 to #5/6 Reel — River Trout: 50 to 100 yards of 20lb is sufficient
#6/7 to #7/8 Reel — Salmon: 150 to 200 yards of 20lb
#8/9 to #10/11 Reel — Saltwater: 200 to 300 yards of 30lb

Installation — How to spool the backing

Step 1 — Tie to the spool

Make a half-hitch around the spool arbor, then a simple knot on the tag end. Pull tight against the arbor.

Step 2 — Wind under light tension

Wind the backing while maintaining light tension with your thumb and forefinger. Layers should be uniform and tight — no crossovers or loose overlaps.

Step 3 — Connect the fly line

Attach the end of the backing to the rear loop of your Axon fly line with a loop-to-loop connection or an Albright knot if your line doesn't have a loop.

Why choose Dacron?

Very Low Stretch: Dacron polyester stretches very little (2–4%) — you feel the fish's movements directly and keep solid contact during the fight.
Moisture Resistant: It does not degrade with water, salt, or UV rays. A well-stored spool lasts for years.
Low Diameter: You maximize your reel's capacity — more backing for the same bulk as an equivalent nylon line.