Above photo: Demo lines for testing all types of rods for different applications. These have all been updated for 2026, along with the fallback favorites.  When people test my rods, they typically lean toward their own line favorites; testing line is really part of the process. I suppose it's kind of like trying on jeans. Experimentation is a good thing. Glass, graphite, and bamboo all react differently  with different heads, bodies, rear tapers, etc. These include silk lines as well as some of Scientific Anglers new arrivals, like the Trout GP. Tested the entire lineup of Winston Pure 2 on the newer lines from Scientific Anglers and RIO last week. I would use up to three different lines on some of these rods throughout the season, depending on the water types, insects, season, wind conditions, and water levels. It's all about application. I am now testing all the Douglas Upstream rods on various newer line types. As for my own bamboo rods, I'm still a silk DT advocate...