replacing line

[Mozdog]

I have a question concerning replacing fly line, leaders, and tippet lines,

I fish probably 25 to 35 days a year. How often should I replace my fly lines. I have had them on there for 3 to 4 years now. Also, I have some line that was given to me 2 to 3 years ago and I haven't used it yet. Would it be ok to use. I am looking for some basic rules to go by.

Next is my guild in Wyoming and Montana said to get rid of the tippet and leaders each year. What do you think about that?

[mmarkey]

Obviously if your line is starting to crack and getting really stiff then it's time to replace it. But I've got lines more than 3 years old that I use every year that are still very usable. Since with fly line you're not worrying about it breaking so you have to be concerned about performance. If the line is overly stiff and starting to coil all the time and you can't stretch the coils out, I'd say it is time to get a new line. Personally I clean my lines reguarly with soap and water and wipe on a new dressing even though the manufacturer says they are not neaded, they seem to cast better when they are slick. Usually when I buy a new line it's because I want a new line not because I need a new line. You know what I mean? JMHO :)