Article Written by Al Quattrocchi. Learn More About the Author Below / Article Read Time 4 Minutes
When fly fishing takes you offshore, where dorado leap across the sky, tuna dig deep, and sailfish rip and fly across the surface, all your gear will be tested and better hold up—especially the backing on your reel.
Having good backing on your fly reels is very important. That’s where Cortland’s Hollow-X backing earns its stripes. This isn’t just any braided backing—it’s a purpose-built workhorse designed to deliver strength, control, and durability in the most demanding saltwater environments.
Hollow-X is engineered with high-molecular-weight polyethylene (HMWPE) fibers, making it incredibly strong for its diameter. But what sets it apart for fly anglers is its tight, round weave, which lies flat on a reel and pays out smoothly during blistering runs. That means fewer tangles, less drag, and more confidence when a pelagic fish is hell-bent on finding the horizon.
Al Q with a beautiful yellowfin.
The offshore game is all about connections; strong knots to your flies/leader system, and smooth connections from your fly line to your backing. Cortland’s FiberTech treatment bonds to each fiber in the braid, creating a slick, smooth connection with almost zero stretch. I like to attach my fly line loop to my braid with a Bimini four-strand surgeons' loop. This loop-to-loop connection is secure and glides through the guides with ease and handles beautifully under pressure. Whether you're locked into a tuna on a 14-weight or clearing backing in a chaos of spray and adrenaline, it remains smooth and reliable under pressure.
Photo Cred: Al Quattrocchi
Offshore fishing is no place for delicate gear. Salt, sun, and toothy predators will test your setup every time. Fortunately, Hollow-X is abrasion-resistant, colorfast, and tough as nails. Thanks to Cortland’s ColorLast technology, it keeps its color through long days on a sunny deck without bleeding. And with test strengths from 5 to 200 pounds and spools ranging from 150 to 5000 yards, it meets the demands of all saltwater situations.
Photo Cred: Al Quattrocchi
It’s reassuring to know that after the initial strike and hook-set, and my fly line clears the guides, you will stay connected and secure, from the first blistering run to the final moments when the fish is landed boatside.
About the author
Al Quattrocchi is a passionate saltwater fly angler, educator, and environmental advocate with over 35 years of experience. He’s helped grow the sport by organizing fly fishing events across California’s coast and mentoring countless new anglers. His mentors include legends such as Lefty Kreh, Nick Curcione, and Bob Popovics.
Al holds two IGFA world records for Calico Bass and White Seabass, both set in one morning off Palos Verdes. He’s a licensed guide, published author, and contributor to leading fly fishing publications. His creative work—including photography, illustrations, and fly designs—has appeared nationwide.
He founded the One Surf Fly and co-hosted the Carp Throw Down, two celebrated charity events supporting local fly shops and nonprofits. Through The FlyZone, Al teaches casting techniques globally with master FFFCI instructor Jim Solomon. He’s also helped introduce celebrities like Jimmy Kimmel to the sport.
Currently, Al is the West Coast editor of Tail Magazine and serves as the West Coast ambassador for the American Museum of Fly Fishing. His love for fly fishing remains rooted in Southern California, where he enjoys sight-fishing for corbina. His latest work, The Corbina Diaries, was recently self-published through Love2FlyFish Media.]
