20LB Dacron Backing
The line reserve that saves you when the fish decides to run.
Axon 20LB Dacron Backing is the industry standard for freshwater reels. Braided Dacron, low stretch, moisture resistant — available in 9 colors and in 100 or 300 yards.
Highlight
The foundation of any well-rigged reel — strong, compact, durable.
- 20LB Braided Dacron: The industry standard for freshwater fly fishing. High strength for its diameter — takes up less space on the arbor than nylon, leaving more room for the fly line.
- Low Stretch: Unlike nylon, Dacron hardly stretches under tension. You directly feel the fish's resistance — better transmission of sensations.
- Does Not Rot: Dacron resists prolonged moisture and does not degrade even when stored wet between outings.
- 9 Colors Available: White, Orange, Blue, Green, Pink, Purple, Black/White, Black/Yellow, Yellow.
- 100 or 300 Yards: 100 yards for the vast majority of freshwater reels. 300 yards for large reels or for spooling multiple spools in a single order.
- Compatible with Axon Reels: Recommended for Axon Shield, Eclipse, and ALC reels in sizes #3/4 to #7/8.
Specifications
Material: Braided Dacron
Strength: 20LB
Available Lengths: 100 yards (91 m) · 300 yards (274 m)
Colors: White · Orange · Blue · Green · Pink · Purple · Black/White · Black/Yellow · Yellow
Primary Use: Freshwater reels #3/4 to #7/8
| Length | Compatible Reel | Target Species |
| 100 yards | #3/4, #5/6, #7/8 | Trout, char, landlocked salmon, bass, Atlantic salmon |
| 300 yards | #7/8, #9/10 | Large freshwater reels, multi-spool reels |
Note: A standard #5/6 reel typically holds 50 to 75 yards of 20LB backing under a WF5 fly line. 100 yards covers all common freshwater reels.
Usage Tips
Which length to choose:
100 yards: Sufficient for the vast majority of freshwater outings. Trout, Atlantic salmon, landlocked salmon — none of these fish will take more than 80 yards of backing under normal conditions.
300 yards: If you are spooling multiple spools at once or using a large #9/10 reel for salmon fishing in a big river. Saves time and the unit cost is more advantageous.
How to spool the backing:
Arbor knot: Pass the backing around the reel's arbor, tie a half-hitch around the main line, then a second half-hitch at the end. Pull to tighten against the arbor before starting to spool.
Spooling: Spool under moderate and consistent tension. Too tight can deform the sides of lightweight reels. Too loose, it will tangle during a fast run.
Connection to fly line: Use a nail knot to connect the fly line to the backing, or a loop-to-loop connection if your fly line has a welded loop. All Axon Real Series fly lines have a welded loop at both ends.
Which color to choose:
Color does not affect performance — choose according to your preference. Orange and yellow are most visible on the water if your backing comes out during a long fight.
Complete Your Setup
Backing is the foundation. For a complete and high-performing setup, here is what you need:
- Fly Line — Connects directly to the backing. Choose your Axon fly line based on your rod and target species.
- Tapered Leader — Attaches loop-to-loop to the front of your fly line. Explore our nylon tapered leaders.
- Tippet — The final link between your leader and your fly. Browse our fluorocarbon and nylon tippets.
- Fly Rod — Discover our high-performance fly rods.
New to fly fishing? The Axon Starter Kit includes everything you need to get started.