RIO Scandi Shooting Head 390gr

# **How to Choose the RIO Scandi Shooting Head 390gr**

When it comes to spey casting for salmon and steelhead, selecting the right shooting head is crucial for achieving optimal performance. The **RIO Scandi Shooting Head 390gr** is a popular choice among anglers who demand precision, distance, and smooth turnover. But how do you know if this line is right for your setup? In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when choosing the **RIO Scandi Shooting Head 390gr**, ensuring you make an informed decision for your next fishing adventure.

## **Understanding the RIO Scandi Shooting Head**

The **RIO Scandi Shooting Head** is designed for Scandinavian-style spey casting, which emphasizes long, controlled casts with minimal effort. The **390gr model** is ideal for medium to large two-handed rods, typically in the **12’6” to 14’ range**, depending on the rod’s grain window.

### **Key Features:**
– **Optimized for Distance:** The tapered design allows for smooth, controlled casts with excellent turnover.
– **Versatile Sink Rates:** Available in floating, intermediate, and slow-sinking options to match different fishing conditions.
– **Durable Construction:** Made with RIO’s high-quality coatings for longevity and consistent performance.

## **Matching the 390gr Head to Your Rod**

One of the most important considerations when choosing a shooting head is **grain weight compatibility**. The **390gr** head is best suited for rods with a grain window between **375-425 grains**.

### **Steps to Ensure Proper Matching:**
1. **Check Your Rod’s Specifications** – Most manufacturers list the recommended grain range for shooting heads.
2. **Consider Your Casting Style** – If you prefer a slower, more relaxed stroke, a slightly lighter head may work better. If you like a faster, more aggressive cast, the 390gr should pair well.
3. **Test Different Lengths** – The standard **RIO Scandi Shooting Head** is **38 feet long**, but adjustments may be needed based on rod length and personal preference.

## **Choosing the Right Sink Rate**

The **RIO Scandi Shooting Head 390gr** comes in multiple sink rates, each suited for different fishing scenarios:

– **Floating (F/I):** Best for surface presentations, skating flies, or fishing in shallow water.
– **Intermediate (I/S3):** Ideal for moderate currents and mid-depth presentations.
– **Slow-Sinking (S3/S5):** Great for deeper pools or when fish are holding near the bottom.

### **When to Use Each Option:**
– **Early Season (Cold Water):** A slow-sinking head helps get flies down to lethargic fish.
– **Summer Runs (Warm Water):** Floating or intermediate heads work well for active fish near the surface.

## **Leader and Tippet Considerations**

To maximize performance, pair the **RIO Scandi Shooting Head 390gr** with an appropriate leader:
– **Floating Head:** Use a **10-15ft tapered leader** for delicate presentations.
– **Sinking Head:** A **shorter, heavier leader (6-10ft)** helps maintain depth control.

## **Final Thoughts**

The **RIO Scandi Shooting Head 390gr** is a versatile and high-performing line that excels in spey casting scenarios. By ensuring proper grain weight matching, selecting the right sink rate, and pairing it with an appropriate leader, you can optimize your casting efficiency and hook more fish.

If you’re looking for a reliable shooting head that delivers distance and control, the **RIO Scandi 390gr** is an excellent choice. Tight lines!

—
**About the Author:**
This article was brought to you by **[KyleBooker Fishing Gear](#)**, your trusted source for premium fishing equipment. Follow us for more expert tips and gear reviews!