9wt or 10wt?

[jpgrandchamp]

I've been flyfishing with a 9wt. Mostly estuaries, "flats" and Sakonnett River shore, and because of the success I've had there only occasionally have I fished beaches with surf. I intend to do more surf fishing. 9 wt has been fine, but I've read and been told various theories that 10wt may have advantages in surf. I'm looking for some thoughts and insights... Thanks

[ron-fish]

You should be fine with a 9wt in the surf unless you find yourself trying to throw a line into a strong wind then a 10wt might be better. I fish Sakonnet point alot and use both a 9 and 10 wt depending on the size of the flies or number(I fish droppers alot) that I'm throwing, not because of the wind. I have found that a 10wt is actually not much different than a 9wt when it comes to distance, just the load each will carry. Hope this helps. Ron

[jpgrandchamp]

Thanks for the input. Do you notice any benefit of 10wt with larger bass and blues?

[ron-fish]

Originally Posted by jpgrandchamp

Thanks for the input. Do you notice any benefit of 10wt with larger bass and blues?

Not really, as I have landed large blues with my 8wt when I was trying for stripers. Ron

[Pete_G]

I'll second ron-fish's opinion on it.

The ability to throw bigger flies and cope with the wind a bit better are the main advantages.

Depending on your 9, you might even consider trying a 10wt line on it.