That RIO InTouch Skagit has been one of my favorite lines for trout spey. I fish 325GR on my Meiser 11' #4/5. If you don't mind experimenting, I would try to go down in line weight as short length and the powerful taper generates a lot of line speed. I never imagined that I'd be casting 10' of T8 or T11 with a 4wt spey 10 years ago. It's not only possible, it's actually very enjoyable.

 

Thanks for the reply and advice! Yeah, I was looking at the Rio chart for the DNA 4wt and it said 325gr for less experienced casters and 275gr for more experienced casters - I am certainly a less experienced caster but it seemed like it might be interesting to experiment with it, as you suggest. Maybe a Commando 275 @ 13.5ft - I also see an older Rio 275gr that's 15ft.

 

Commando 275 will be closer to 350 Grain InTouch. 325GR seems about right for the DNA wt. 'Experienced caster' recommendation is typically for those who can keep the stroke compact without losing line tension. Most beginners tend to power through the forward stroke with the top-hand. Looking at the DNA spec, 325GR might be right on the money. Most rods can cast way outside of the typical grain window advertised. You should decide the line weight based on how big of a fly or tips you want to throw. I love my 325 for throwing T8 mow tips with pretty big streamers.

 

Okay, that's helpful to know. I'll probably be fishing it the same way so maybe I should just focus on getting my casting down with the 325 and not worry about other heads for now. Thanks for all the advice!

 

I have that rod…for skagit I use a 275gr commando smooth, with 10’ Poly leaders and for scandi an older rio @270gr and 24’. Very nice trout spey rod…you can definitely go to 325gr if you like a very heavy load, I touch and go the 275gr with up to medium sink 10’ polys, very smooth.

 

Okay, great to know. Maybe I'll try out that commando once I'm comfortable with the 325gr. For scandi I have the Rio 305gr - think that'll be a little heavy or good for an inexperienced caster like myself?