What Fishing line to use?

September 19, 2023

Look at the Pros and Cons of each line type and consider what type of fishing you will be doing. 

Braided Line

  • Pros:
    • Strength: Highly durable and strong, making it great for heavy cover and targeting big fish.
    • Sensitivity: Offers great sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest bite.
  • Cons:
    • Visibility: Highly visible in the water, which can deter fish.

Monofilament Line

  • Pros:
    • Stretch: Has a fair amount of stretch, which can be forgiving when fighting a fish.
    • Cost: Generally less expensive than other types of lines.

Cons:

    • Abrasion Resistance: Tends to have lower abrasion resistance compared to braid and fluorocarbon.

Fluorocarbon Line

Pros:

    • Invisibility: Nearly invisible underwater, making it less likely to spook wary fish.
    • Abrasion Resistance: Has good abrasion resistance, which is beneficial in rocky environments.
  • Cons:
    • Stiffness: Can be stiffer and more difficult to handle compared to other lines. Make sure to tighten the knots well. Use water to assit in the knot.

Conclusion

  • For Heavy Cover: Braid is typically the best choice due to its high strength and durability.
  • For General Use: Monofilament is a versatile choice, suitable for a variety of fishing situations.
  • For Clear Water: Fluorocarbon is often preferred for its low visibility in clear water environments.

Ultimately, the best line will depend on a variety of factors including your target species, the fishing environment, and your personal preferences. It’s not uncommon for anglers to use all three types of lines in different situations, so you might consider experimenting with each to see which works best for you.