TYPES OF FISHING LINES (All TYPES )

 Types of Fishing Lines: A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

There exist multiple variations of fishing lines, with two widely utilized options being monofilament and braided lines. Monofilament, composed of nylon, is a single continuous filament, while braided fishing lines consist of several extremely strong, thin fibers, resembling Kevlar, interwoven to create a round cross-sectional line.

Types of Fishing Lines

Fishing lines come in various types, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. Let's dive into the different types of fishing lines available:

a) Monofilament Fishing Line                          

Overview

Among all the fishing line Monofilament fishing line is a most popular choice among all anglers  because of it's affordability and easy to use. This fishing line is made up of a single strand of nylon which offers excellent knot strength and manageable casting.

Advantages

• Easy to handle and manage
• Good knot strength
• Cost-effective option
• Suitable for a wide range of fishing conditions

Disadvantages

• Less sensitive than other types of lines
• Prone to line memory and tangling
• Susceptible to UV damage

Best Uses

Monofilament fishing lines are suitable for various fishing techniques, including freshwater and light saltwater fishing. In lakes, rivers, and ponds they are commonly and mostly used.

b) Fluorocarbon Fishing Line                             

Overview

Fluorocarbon fishing line is known for its near-invisibility underwater, making it an excellent choice for situations where fish are easily spooked. It is made from a special type of polymer which has a refractive index similar to water and due to it's refractive index it is less visible to fish.

Advantages

• Excellent invisibility underwater
• Abrasion-resistant
• Sinks faster than monofilament
• Resistant to UV damage

Disadvantages

• Less supple than monofilament
• More expensive than monofilament
• Lower knot strength compared to braided lines

Best Uses

Fluorocarbon fishing lines are ideal for finesse fishing, clear water conditions, and situations where fish are line-shy. They are commonly used for bass fishing, trout fishing, and other freshwater applications.

c) Braided Fishing Line                       

Overview

Braided fishing line is made by weaving together multiple strands of synthetic fibers, creating a super-strong and thin line. It offers high strength-to-diameter ratio and excellent sensitivity, making it a favorite among anglers targeting large and hard-fighting fish.

Advantages

• Incredible strength and sensitivity
• Thin diameter for increased line capacity
• Minimal stretch for better hooksets
• Long-lasting and resistant to UV damage

Disadvantages

• Less abrasion-resistant than fluorocarbon
• High visibility in clear water
• Requires special knots for optimal performance

Best Uses

Braided fishing lines excel in situations that require casting distance, sensitivity, and strength. They are commonly used for saltwater fishing, deep-sea fishing, and heavy cover situations.

d) Fly Fishing Line                         

Overview

Fly fishing line is specifically designed for fly fishing, where delicate presentations and precise casting are essential. It is typically thicker and heavier compared to other fishing lines to facilitate the casting of lightweight flies.

Advantages

• Designed for accurate casting
• Allows delicate presentations
• Enables anglers to control the fly on the water
• Offers excellent floatability for dry fly fishing

Disadvantages

• Limited versatility for non-fly fishing applications
• Requires matching with fly rod and reel
• Specialized techniques and skills are needed

Best Uses

Fly fishing lines are used exclusively for fly fishing. Various species of fish like trout, salmon, and bass, in both freshwater and saltwater are suitable target using this line.

e) Lead Core Fishing Line                   

Overview

Lead core fishing line is a specialized type of fishing line that consists of a lead wire core wrapped in a protective sheath. It is primarily used for trolling, where anglers want to reach specific depths without using additional weights.

Advantages

• Allows precise depth control while trolling
• Provides excellent sensitivity to detect strikes
• Stealthy underwater due to its low visibility
• Ideal for targeting suspended fish

Disadvantages

• Requires specific trolling techniques and equipment
• More expensive than regular fishing lines
• Can be challenging to handle and store

Best Uses

Lead core fishing lines are commonly used for trolling in both freshwater and saltwater environments. They are commonly used for catching species like trout, walleye, and striped bass.

f) Wire Fishing Line                      

Overview

Wire fishing line is a heavy-duty line made from stainless steel or other metallic alloys. It is incredibly strong and resistant to abrasion, making it suitable for targeting toothy predators with sharp teeth.

Advantages

• Exceptionally strong and durable
• Resistant to cuts and abrasion
• Ideal for targeting fish with sharp teeth
• Can withstand harsh conditions

Disadvantages

• Less flexibility and sensitivity
• Prone to kinking and tangling
• Requires special techniques for knot tying

Best Uses

Wire fishing lines are primarily used for saltwater fishing and targeting species like pike, musky, and barracuda. They are also suitable for ice fishing and other situations where toothy fish are prevalent

Copolymer Fishing line 

Copolymer fishing line is a hybrid line that combines the properties of monofilament and fluorocarbon lines. It is made by blending different polymers to create a line with unique characteristics.

 Copolymer lines offer the knot strength, flexibility, and manageability of monofilament lines, along with the low visibility and abrasion resistance of fluorocarbon lines. They provide good sensitivity, some stretch, and are suitable for various fishing applications in both freshwater and saltwater.

Copolymer lines aim to strike a balance between different line properties and are favored by anglers looking for versatility. Factors such as fishing conditions, target species, and personal preferences should be considered when choosing a copolymer line.

What pound fishing line to use ?

To choose poundage best fishing line it depends upon various factors like the types of fish you are targeting, which fishing techniques you plan to use and the condition of the fishing environment.  Below are some general guidelines to help you choose the appropriate fishing line poundage for yourslef:

1) Light fishing: For small fish species like trout or panfish, a fishing line with a poundage between 2-6 lbs (0.9-2.7 kg) is suitable. Lighter lines allow for better sensitivity and finesse when presenting small baits or lures.

2) Freshwater fishing: For targeting medium sized fish in freshwater like bass, walleye, or pike you can use fishing line with a poundage between 6-12 lbs (2.7-5.4 kg) . This range provides a good balance between strength and sensitivity.

3) Saltwater fishing: When fishing in saltwater, the fish species tend to be larger and more powerful. Therefore, a fishing line with a poundage between 10-30 lbs (4.5-13.6 kg) is typically used. The specific poundage within this range depends on the size of the targeted species and the fishing technique employed.

4) Heavy-duty fishing: If you are targeting larger, more aggressive species such as tuna, marlin, or sharks, you will need a fishing line with a poundage above 30 lbs (13.6 kg). Heavy-duty lines offer the necessary strength and durability to handle the intense pressure exerted by these powerful fish.

                    You have to remember that these are the general guidelines, you have to focus on other factors too like the fishing location, your personal preferences, and the recommendations of experienced anglers.

Fishing line Material 

Fishing lines are made from three primary materials: monofilament, braided, and fluorocarbon.

1) Monofilament: Versatile, affordable, and easy to use. It has good knot strength, reasonable sensitivity, and some stretch.

2) Braided: Strong, thin, and low stretch. Provides excellent sensitivity and longer casting distance. Can be more challenging to handle.

3) Fluorocarbon: Nearly invisible underwater, low stretch, and good sensitivity. Commonly used as leader material or for finesse fishing. It is more expensive than monofilament and braided lines.

FAQs

Best Fishing line for beginners ?

 For beginners Monofilament line , Braided line and  Fluorocarbon line are the best.

What is the use of fishing line ?

The fishing line is used to connect the fishing rod and reel to the hook or lure, allowing anglers to cast their bait and catch fish. It provides control, sensitivity, and strength during fishing, helping to set the hook and secure the fish until it is landed.

How thick is fishing line ?

Fishing lines vary in thickness, ranging from thin strands to thicker strings. The specific thickness depends on the type of line and fishing needs. Anglers can choose the appropriate diameter based on the fishing conditions and target fish size.

What is the best line to use ?

Monofilament and Fluorocarbon are the best line to use.

What is the best fishing line for beginners ?

For beginners, monofilament fishing lines are recommended due to their ease of use and affordability.

Can I use a braided fishing line for saltwater fishing ?

Yes, braided fishing lines are commonly used for saltwater fishing, especially when targeting large and powerful fish.

How often should I change my fishing line ?

Many anglers recommend to change their fishing line at least once a year. If it is damaged or loose strength then you can change it frequently.

Is fluorocarbon fishing line invisible underwater ?

Fluorocarbon fishing lines are nearly invisible underwater, making them a popular choice for situations where fish are easily spooked.

What is the purpose of lead core fishing line ?

Lead core fishing lines allow anglers to control the depth at which their lures or baits are presented while trolling.

Can I use wire fishing line for freshwater fishing ?

While wire fishing lines are commonly associated with saltwater fishing, they can also be used for freshwater fishing, particularly when targeting toothy fish species.