New Airflo Spey Lines for Steelhead & Salmon – Scandi Compact & Rage Tri Tip
Fall is just around the corner, which means steelhead and salmon season is about to kick off. Just in time, Airflo has released two exciting updates to their lineup that we’re really excited about:

  • The return of the legendary Airflo Scandi Compact
  • The all-new Airflo Rage Tri Tip integrated line
Here’s what you need to know about both lines and why they should be on your radar this season.

Airflo Scandi Compact – A Classic Returns

The Airflo Scandi Compact has long been one of the most popular Scandi-style shooting heads ever produced. After being discontinued years ago, it’s back with updated coatings and performance refinements.

Key Features:

  • Length: ~33 ft head – perfect for a wide range of rods.
  • Rod Compatibility: Works beautifully on shorter spey rods as well as mid-sized 12’6” to 13’ rods.
  • Leader Compatibility: Carries poly leaders effortlessly.
This is one of our absolute favourite Scandi heads for Great Lakes steelhead and Atlantic salmon fishing. Smooth, predictable, and easy to cast, it’s a must-have for anyone who loves Scandi-style presentation.

Airflo Rage Tri Tip – A Versatile Integrated System

The brand-new Airflo Rage Tri Tip builds on the success of the classic Rage head, which blends the best of Scandi and Skagit design. 

  • Scandi-like performance for touch-and-go casts.
  • A bit more punch for turning over heavier flies and dealing with wind.
  • The Rage Tri Tip takes that proven taper and integrates it into a full line, complete with interchangeable tips.


Integrated running line – No loops or connections to catch in your guides, perfect for fishing slow currents or stripping flies.
Three interchangeable tips included:
  • Floating
  • Intermediate
  • Type 3 sink tip
Each tip is equal in length and weight, meaning you can swap densities without changing your casting stroke—much like the RIO Scandi VersiTip system. This makes transitioning from pool to pool seamless and efficient.

Which One Should You Choose?

Want the smoothest Scandi experience? Go with the Scandi Compact—ideal for touch-and-go presentations, lighter flies, and delicate drifts.

Need versatility and an integrated system? The Rage Tri Tip shines when you’re covering different depths throughout the day and prefer an all-in-one line without loop connections.

Both lines are now available online and in the shop. If you’re not sure which is best for your rod or local water, get in touch or stop by—we’ll help you get dialed in for the season.

Fall steelhead and salmon are almost here—make sure your gear is ready!
chris_brown
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Chris Krysciak
Shop Manager/Head Instructor
As Drift Outfitters' Head Instructor, Chris Krysciak brings almost 20 years of fly fishing and 15 years of float fishing experience to every lesson. Chris has been a competitive fly angler for over 10 years and has had the opportunity to fish for Fly Fishing Team Canada at two world championships, providing him the chance to learn from some of the best anglers in the world, skills that he loves to share with new and experienced anglers alike! Chris also has a deep passion for fly tying , having been a commercial fly tyer for many years, as well as having been featured at the International Fly Tying Symposium and in numerous magazines.

Chris will take any opportunity available to get on the water, wherever that presents. There aren't many corners of Ontario he hasn't fished, and has also had the chance to fish across Canada, The Carribean, and Europe. From trout, to Atlantic salmon, to carp, to musky, to bonefish, to tarpon, if it's a fish, you can find him chasing it!