Choosing the right line – choose your fishing line based on the intended purpose!
A tight line is a desired occurrence on any fishing trip. In fact, knowledge of fishing lines is a fishing fundamental, so read on for solid tips on choosing a suitable line!
Line materials fall into two main categories
Lines can be divided into two main categories: monofilament and braided lines. The market is filled with a multitude of different brands in varying price categories. The old familiar rule of “you get what you pay for” applies here as well, so you should definitely invest in good quality line that is appropriate for your preferred fishing style. More affordable basic lines that can be replaced without worrying about it too much if they break or get worn out. Also suitable for a spare spool of fishing line in your tackle box.
Monofilament lines
Your standard fishing line that is typically more affordable than braided lines. These lines are made from various plastic mixtures, are usually easy to tie knots with, and are more resilient against abrasion than braided lines. They also stretch more than braided lines and are thus a solid piece of basic equipment for all types of fishing. Monofilament lines are made of a single filament and come in stretchy and non-stretchy, and stiff and pliable versions. Monofilament line is a handy addition to your kit, as they can be used to prepare leaders to accompany braided line for casting. Monofilament lines are not usually recommended for jigging, as braided lines are more suitable there.
Braided lines
Braided lines are usually made from Spectra, Dyneema, or Dacron fibers. The tensile strength and thinness of braided lines are unquestionable benefits of these lines compared to others. This means that braided lines are excellent for casting among other things, as a thin line enables longer casting. The inelasticity of braided line is also a strength, as it improves the feel of the lure. In terms of weaknesses, braided lines are somewhat more expensive than monofilament lines. The lower abrasion resistance and vulnerability to freezing can also be considered weaknesses of braided lines. Braided lines cannot really be recommended for general angling, as their properties are more suited to other fishing styles
Fluorocarbon and fluorocarbon-coated lines
The latest addition to the fishing line market are fluorocarbon and fluorocarbon-coated lines, which can be classified as monofilament lines due to their single-strand composition. Fluorocarbon and fluorocarbon-coated lines are heavier than monofilament lines, which means that they are great for fishing with lighter lures, as the heavier line allows the lure to sink quicker. Other benefits of fluorocarbon include the option to use it for leaders and better suitability for timid fish, as it is less visible in water than traditional lines.
Choosing your line based on the intended purpose
Where and how are you fishing and what is your target? Do you prefer winter fishing in freezing conditions or trolling on the sea under the summer sun? Lines are typically divided into three categories based on their intended purpose: winter fishing, sea fishing (saltwater), and freshwater fishing. Based on these categories you can tell whether line is suitable for use in freezing conditions or strong enough for heavy catches on the sea and whether it offers visibility or transparency. Colored line is handy in the wintertime for example, as the colorful line is easier to see on the snow. Colored lines are also preferred in jigging, as they allow you to spot bites more easily. Colored lines are also useful when fishing in a group, as different colors will allow each angler to identify their line. Transparent line is at its best when fishing for more timid fish.
The intended purpose also determines the abrasion resistance, knot strength, thickness, and elasticity of the line. Abrasion resistance is required when you wish to avoid leaving your lure on the bottom or breaking your line in the middle of a fight with your catch. Knot strength is largely tied to tensile strength, as the knotted sections largely determine the tensile performance of the line. If the knot strength is weak, even the highest tensile strength will not maintain the integrity of the line as it will fail at the knot. Thicker line is appropriate for pike fishing, for example, whereas thinner lines are better for lightweight fishing. Line elasticity is a frequent topic of discussion, including the appropriate level of elasticity and the promises given by various products, for example.
As a general rule, the more elastic your line is, the weaker the feel for the fish offered by it.
When choosing your fishing line, you should also consider its memory. That's right; fishing line has memory! Line memory refers to how long the line retains the coiled shape it was in while spooled. Good fishing line has low memory, which means that it straightens quickly.
Regardless of your line choice or style of fishing, remember to store your lines properly, replace them where necessary (even expensive lines will not work forever), and ensure proper spooling.
