Choosing a type of fishing line can be quite confusing at times, since there are a huge number of different fishing lines on the shelves today. Depending on what type of fish you’re after, where you’ll be fishing, and personal preference, you may need a different line than your buddy. You may go through hours of research and experimenting before finding your perfect line – or line combination.
To get you started, there are basically three types of fishing line available today. Monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braided lines are your main choices.
Monofilament
This is the most common type of fishing line, and it the least expensive. It is available in a variety of different colors and pound-tests. Monofilament is best for general fishing and beginners.
To make monofilament fishing line, different polymers are melted, mixed, and forced through tiny holes. During this process is when the pound test is determined. Since monofilament line retains water, it will float, and it is almost invisible in the water.
There is a lot of stretch in monofilament fishing line. This can be either a good thing or a bad thing, depending on what, where, and how you’re fishing. When fishing line stretches, it absorbs some of the fish strike. This can make it harder to set the hook. On the other hand, monofilament line can be much more forgiving when a larger fish makes a strong break for it.
Monofilament fishing line, however, is small in diameter and very susceptible to damage from heat, UV rays, and deterioration. It is recommended that you change the line at least once a year.
Fluorocarbon
This is considered a monofilament fishing line, and it is known for its refractive index, which is very similar to water. A refractive index is, in the most basic sense, is how much light bends as it goes through something. Since the refractive index of this line is so similar to the refractive index of water, fluorocarbon fishing line is virtually invisible in water. This makes the line excellent for fishing in clear waters.
Fluorocarbon line is made by combining a carbon base with a fluoropolymer, known as polyvinylidene fluoride. This material is much more dense than the polymers, which make it less buoyant.
Much stronger than ordinary monofilament fishing line, fluorocarbon line does not deteriorate from heat, UV rays, water, or chemicals. This line stretches very little, and it also has a tendency to sink in the water. Anglers that would rather not use bulky sinkers swear by this line.
Fluorocarbon fishing line has a few advantages over regular monofilament line, and therefor, it costs a bit extra. It also has a bad reputation for not casting well, if not equipped with the proper rod and reel. It also does not hold knots well, which can result in the loss of a large quantity of hooks and lures. Typically, a trilene knot is recommended for this line.
Braided
Braided lines are also known as microfilament or superlines. They get the latter name for their strength. They are very strong, which make them great when fishing in places with dense aquatic plant growth, such as lily pads. Of course, because of the strength of this line, it is also much more expensive than other lines.
Braided line is a multifilament line. It is made from a number of intertwined strands of various materials, such as nylon. These strands are intertwined by braiding, or joined together in a process known as thermal fusion.
This fishing line has very little stretch, which makes it much more sensitive. This can also make setting the hook much easier. It is also one of the strongest line available on the market, although some brands can snap if there is any kind of bur in the eyelets of the rod. It is best to keep eyelets filed and free of burs when using braided lines.
Despite its sensitively and super strength, braided fishing line does have its disadvantages. It is not known for its smooth casting, and some knots can slip out if not tied properly. Braided fishing line is also very visible in the water. Unless you’re fishing in murky waters, there is a good chance that the fish will see your line and realized something is up.