There are many fly line densities available on the market but one of the most versatile is the Intermediate. In particular these slow sinking lines lend themselves to tactics designed to intercept fish that inhabit the mid water layers. Descending at between one to three inches per second there are a variety of different products to choose from although the new 2009 Hardy Marksman lines are difficult to beat.
The steady sink rate of the intermediate renders it an ideal choice for all kinds of venues and situations. It is also a first line of attack when conditions do not provide any obvious clues regarding the depth at which the fish are located. A decent ripple for example will break the surface tension causing many worn out pupa and other insects to tumble around in the first six feet of water. The Trout will soon discover an easy meal but the angler will see no obvious signs of action; an ideal time to wet the Intermediate. Once cast immediately give the line a couple of decent pulls to start the sinking process and then count. Many anglers forget to do this and so when a fish does hit they are unsure at which depth the take was forthcoming. Try to get into a routine of counting the line down for periods of time, fifteen minutes at ten seconds for example and then a further fifteen at twenty seconds. This systematic approach coupled with a varied retrieve and careful fly choice will often lead to satisfying results. However if you fancy an easier day incorporating a little less concentration the Intermediate performs well with a constant figure of eight commenced the moment the line touches the water. I call this "no brain fishing" as it requires little effort from the angler but is often successful!
Use a fluorocarbon leader with a team of flies that sways heavily towards the natural approach. Trout that cruise the mid water layers come across a variety of sustenance but in particular Buzzer Pupa making their way to the surface, therefore imitations are likely to meet with success. Give the fish some choice by fishing standard flies such as a plain Black Buzzer along with variations that include a holographic rib or perhaps an obvious wing bud. Particular favourites are the Diawl Bach and Cruncher series of patterns; proven fish catchers that loan themselves to change.
Retrieves should be varied with all densities of line but once again the intermediate offers ultimate versatility. For example when fishing imitative patterns the line can be inched back steadily with a figure of eight without fear of snagging bottom. In calm conditions when a floating line may disturb the surface and spook fish, try a steady twitch imitating insects in the top few feet of water endeavouring to make a last bid for freedom. Near static retrieves that reduce slack can be lethal if fished using the washing line technique; a buoyant fly on the point with a couple of Buzzers or similar in the dropper positions. Use a slow sinking Intermediate and observe the line carefully during fishing. If a fish takes the natural bow in the line will seem to disappear, a smooth lift confirms that a Trout has been fooled.
Lures also work well fished as part of a team, an attractor on the top dropper with maybe one or two imitative patterns following. This method can be further improved by placing a lure followed by a nymph or Buzzer spaced four feet apart and then repeating the process a few feet further along the leader. Stroke the flies back with a steady pull adding in an intermittent jerky retrieve to suddenly light up the lure which should incorporate a mobile wing such as Marabou. The Cormorant is a perfect pattern to try out in this line-up.
There is one seasonal occasion that will see me reaching for the Intermediate on a regular basis; Fry Time. Trout will hunt fry in the margins especially during autumn ready for the long winter ahead, marauding into the terrified bait in order to stun and maim. Cruising back through the carnage the fish make easy pickings of the helpless victims. Standard tactics involve a floating line and buoyant pattern such as a Platazote or Deer Hair Floating Fry but try a Minkie Booby connected to a slow sinking Intermediate. Our imitation fish will remain buoyant for some time as the line sinks while a quick pull every now and again will cause the fly to shudder enticingly as it falls below the surface and then rises again. Sometimes a strike is required as a big snout appears to engulf the offering but also expect an arm wrenching take at any moment as the fly is attacked from below.
Finally don't leave the Intermediate behind when heading out for alternative species. Saltwater fly fishing for Bass in European waters has become very popular in recent years and slow sinking lines coupled with various baitfish imitations are a proven winner. Cast them using a Hardy Zane, incredibly light but powerful and if your pocket won't stretch to this then opt for a Platinum XD Saltwater by Greys, an amazing rod for the money. In particular I am never without an Intermediate while fishing for the supremely predatory Pike. Using a similar tactic to the fry method described above try Poppers, a buoyant fly with a blunt or concaved head made from closed cell foam or similar. Once again these patterns are usually fished with a floater but I believe they come alive connected to the intermediate. Fished with a variety of sharp erratic pulls followed by a steady draw the lure coughs and splutters at the surface giving off an irresistible gurgle. Meanwhile below a cascade of air bubbles engulfs the Popper which the predatory Pike will find hard to resist. In conclusion the Intermediate line is so good that an angler taking to the water without one is at a severe disadvantage!
