OPST SHS Commando Floating Tips (steelhead/salmon)

OPST is known for Skagit, but what some people don't know is that if you harness the power of a Skagit head, and finish it with a tapered, floating tip, you get something very similar to a Scandinavian head. Laser-sharp loops and delicate presentations are now possible with a Commando Head, with their new floating Commando Tips in 7.5, 10, 12 and 14 foot lengths. For skating flies to aggressive summer steelhead, to chugging poppers for silver salmon to nymphing, these strong, tapered tips are a vital component of a complete fishing kit. Designed for single hand rods all the way up to full-length spey rods, they will work on rods at least as long as 14 feet. The SHS Commando Floating Tips come with a welded loop at both ends, as well as a line ID on the rear end. Try them with OPST's sink tip wallet to keep them neatly organized.

Q: What types of fly lines do you sell?
A: Drift Outfitters carries fly lines for every fishing style and species — from delicate trout presentations to heavy saltwater setups. You’ll find floating, sinking, and intermediate lines, along with specialty tapers for Euro nymphing, spey casting, and warmwater fishing.

Q: How do I choose the right fly line for my rod?
A: Match the line weight to your rod weight (for example, a 5wt line for a 5wt rod). The type of fishing you do matters too — floating lines are best for dry flies, while sinking or sink-tip lines are ideal for streamers or deep-water presentations.

Q: What’s the difference between weight-forward and double-taper lines?
A: Weight-forward (WF) lines have their weight in the front for easier casting and distance, making them the most popular choice for most anglers. Double-taper (DT) lines offer smoother roll casts and can be reversed for extended use — great for traditional or delicate presentations, however many weight forward lines also offer these benefits, making DT lines less popular.

Q: Which fly line brands do you carry?
A: We stock leading brands RIO, Scientific Anglers, Airflo, and more. Each brand offers premium coatings, slick finishes, and tapers designed for maximum performance in both fresh and saltwater.

Q: How do I clean and maintain my fly line?
A: Rinse your line with warm, soapy water and dry it with a soft cloth to remove dirt and buildup. Use a fly line cleaner or dressing periodically to restore slickness and extend its lifespan. Proper care keeps your line floating high and casting smoothly.

Q: How often should I replace my fly line?
A: With proper cleaning and care, most fly lines last several seasons. However, if your line begins to crack, lose buoyancy, or feel sticky, it’s time for a replacement to maintain casting performance.