OPST Fly Lines — Commando Skagit Heads & Running Lines

Olympic Peninsula Skagit Tactics (OPST) produces Skagit-style lines and running lines developed by some of the most influential two-handed anglers in the Pacific Northwest. Their Commando Head system — shorter and lighter than traditional Skagit heads — was developed specifically for smaller switch rods and tight-quarters casting situations where conventional Skagit heads are too heavy to perform well. OPST Lazar Line running line has become an industry standard for its low-memory, high-visibility characteristics that work in cold water conditions where competing running lines go stiff and coil.

OPST Commando Head System

The Commando Head is OPST's core innovation — a short, ultra-dense Skagit head that loads switch rods and light Spey rods in 4 to 6-weight configurations that conventional Skagit heads can't properly load. Designed for smaller rivers, tight banks, and the micro-Spey approach to steelhead fishing, the Commando system democratized two-handed fishing for anglers on smaller waters. Paired with Commando Tips in various sink rates, the system is remarkably versatile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What switch rod does the OPST system work best with?
OPST designed the Commando system specifically for switch rods in the 4–7 weight range, with grain windows starting at 175 grains for light 4-weight switch rods through 375+ grains for heavier 7-weight configurations. Most switch rod manufacturers now publish OPST-specific grain recommendations, making matching the head to the rod straightforward.

Q: Why is OPST Lazar Line considered the best running line?
OPST Lazar Line uses a specialized coating that maintains low memory in cold water — a critical advantage in Pacific Northwest winter fishing where conventional running lines coil up and create tangles that cost fish. The high-visibility color also allows anglers to track the head-to-running-line connection, which helps with anchor placement and D-loop formation in Skagit casting.