Even if you are not an experienced fisherman, you are sure to know that not all fishing lines are the same. If you opt for a wrong one for particular fishing conditions, it will complicate the process of catching fish. In fact, there are only three major types of fishing lines: braided lines, monofilament line, and fluorocarbon lines. In this article, we will tell you a bit about each of them and help you to make the right choice.
The first type – braided fishing lines – is made of woven fibers. It is highly sensitive, low stretch, and has a small diameter (in comparison to the other two types of the same break strength). It also comes in a great number of colors. There are several advantages of such lines. Their small diameter makes it easier to cast long distances. Moreover, you can fit more of this line on your reel, which makes it ideal for all baits that benefit from long and accurate casts or for fishing near the bottom in current. The lower stretch of braided fishing lines will help you to feel the taps from striking fish much more clearly than in the case of all other types. However, you should bear in mind that braids are more difficult to manage because they tangle easily and harder to untangle. Besides, you will have a hard time to tie a knot. Finally, braided lines are much more visible to fish.
The second type of line called monofilament and made of a single fiber of extruded nylon plastic. The majority of such lines are transparent but you can also find fluorescent and colored versions. The evident advantage of such lines is that they are considerably less expensive than braided or fluorocarbon lines. Other good news is that it is easier to tie knots in such lines, which makes them perfect for beginners. Monofilament line stretches better and can absorb the shock in case a big fish strikes. At the same time, good stretching capacity makes it harder to feel taps from fish striking your bait. Besides these lines are thicker at the same breaking strength – so, they will not suit long distances, fishing near the bottom or in moving water.
Fluorocarbon lines are mostly used for fishing for species that are line-shy and immediately disappear at the presence of more visible lines. They are also made of single strands and are thicker than braided lines. Their greatest advantage is their invisibility, which makes them the best option for fishing underwater. Their stretching capacity is lower than that of monofilament lines, which makes it easier to detect bites and to drive the fish to the shore. Another benefit is their high durability because they do not absorb water or degrade when being exposed to sunlight. If you want to use light baits near the bottom, you should choose this type because they sink having extra density. Their only flaw is their stiffness and longer memory, which can lead to more tangles.
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