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 silks?

Each Axon line is designed for a specific purpose. The Impulse WF is our versatile line — ideal for beginners and for improving your technique. The Windcutter is optimized for windy conditions. The Outbound Short excels in tight spaces thanks to its short head. If you're unsure which to choose, check out our free guide in the Academy or write to 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. International delivery typically takes 5–10 business days depending on the destination. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout.

How long does delivery to Canada take?

Standard shipping to Canada takes 5 to 10 business days. Shipping is free on orders of $150 or more.

What happens if I'm not satisfied?

We offer a complete satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, contact us within 30 days of receipt and we will find a solution—a full refund or exchange, according to your preference. No complicated questions asked.

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.

Backing line for battles that give no quarter.

The Axon 30LB Dacron Backing is designed for large reels and species that test equipment to its limits. Pike that charges into weeds, largemouth bass that dives under a log, coastal species that melts your reel in seconds — the 30LB provides the extra strength that makes all the difference when it counts. Same quality braided Dacron material, same low stretch, same durability — with 50% more strength than the 20LB. Available in 9 colors and in 100 or 300 yards.

Highlight

50% stronger than 20LB — for large reels and demanding species.

30LB Braided Dacron: Same construction as the 20LB with 50% higher breaking strength. Slightly thicker — takes up a bit more arbor space, recommended for #7/8 and larger reels.
Low Stretch: Dacron does not stretch under tension — direct transmission of feel even on long runs. Crucial for feeling and managing a big fish 100 yards away.
For Predators: Pike, largemouth bass, and coastal species require a backing capable of absorbing powerful runs and sudden changes of direction without fraying or breaking.
9 Colors Available: White, Orange, Blue, Green, Pink, Purple, Black/White, Black/Yellow, Yellow.
100 or 300 Yards: 100 yards for standard #7/8 reels. 300 yards for large saltwater reels or for spooling multiple spools at once.
Axon Reel Compatible: Recommended for Axon reels in #7/8 to #10/11 sizes.

Specifications

Material: Braided Dacron
Strength: 30LB
Available Lengths: 100 yards (91 m) · 300 yards (274 m)
Colors: White · Orange · Blue · Green · Pink · Purple · Yellow · Black/White · Black/Yellow
Primary Use: #7/8 and larger reels, predatory species, coastal fishing

Length	Compatible Reel	Target Species
100 yards	#7/8, #9/10	Pike, largemouth bass, large river salmon
300 yards	#9/10, #10/11	Large saltwater reels, tarpon, coastal species

Note: The 30LB is slightly thicker than the 20LB. On a #5/6 reel, it will take up more arbor space and leave less capacity for the fly line. Reserve it for #7/8 and larger reels.

Usage Tips

20LB or 30LB — how to choose:

20LB: Trout, char, landlocked salmon, Atlantic salmon in standard rivers, smallmouth bass — the 20LB covers 90% of freshwater situations in Quebec and Canada.
30LB: Pike, largemouth bass, fast-running and long-distance species, coastal saltwater fishing, large #8/9/10 reels — wherever you want extra strength and peace of mind.

How to spool the backing:

Arbor Knot: Pass the backing around the reel arbor, tie a half hitch around the main line, then a second half hitch at the end of the line. Pull firmly to tighten against the arbor before winding.
Winding: Wind under moderate and even tension. The regularity of the winding is more important than the tension — an evenly layered wind comes out without snags during a fast run.
Connecting to the Fly Line: Double surgeon's knot (nail knot) recommended for the 30LB, or loop-to-loop connection if your fly line has a welded loop. All Axon Real Series fly lines have welded loops at both ends.

Care and Durability:

Dacron requires no special maintenance. After saltwater outings, rinsing with fresh water extends its lifespan. Replace the backing only if it shows visible signs of abrasion or if it has been subjected to knots under very high repeated tension.