History

Scientific Anglers is credited with being the first fly line manufacturer to break from the tradition of braided silk lines by introducing something truly revolutionary: polymer coated fly lines.  No longer did anglers have to treat lines to make them float, or dry them after a day on the water.  Scientific Angler’s lines float higher, last longer, and require very little maintenance.  Our proprietary manufacturing method allowed us to infinitely adjust tapers, to create lines tailor made for different environments and a variety applications.  Scientific Anglers chose to use flexible PVC because of it’s incredible wear and bending strength and weather-ability.  That’s how we make the most durable fly lines in the world.

Flex PVC

What is flex PVC?  Flex PVC is made by combining PVC with a suitable liquid known as a plasticizer.  Plasticizers are added to make the PVC more supple, so that it can withstand the stress of being bent back and forth (casting for example).  The type and loading of plasticizer determines how soft or rigid the end product is.  Plasticizer science has evolved over the years and has adapted as needed.  Older plasticizer technology used substances called phthalates which came under scrutiny and are now regulated by organizations and legislation like Proposition 65 (US-California) and REACH (EU).

Flexible (plasticized) PVC is still widely used in many different markets like medical tubing, blood bags, flooring, rainwear and boots, automotive interiors, plumbing, imitation leather, inflatable watercraft, and cable insulation to name a few.

Scientific Angler’s Current Coating Formulation

Like other industries, Scientific Angler’s coating formulation has adapted over the years to better suit the market and to protect our resources.  Scientific Angler’s current fly line coating formulation DOES NOT contain phthalate-based plasticizers present on  California’s Proposition 65 chemical list or regulated by REACH.  We are committed to providing the highest quality, most durable and environmentally friendly products that we can.

Durability

A final thought, and different perspective on environmentally conscious products:  testing shows that our fly lines are 2-4 times more durable than competitive PVC lines, and 7-8 times more durable than competitive non-PVC lines.  We keep more fly lines out of landfills simply by providing a more durable product.