Tackle Your Rod Setup Like a Pro: How to Choose the Best Fishing Line

Picking the right line for fishing can feel more difficult than untangling a line knot.

If you don't know what you're doing when you walk into a tackle shop, you'll find yourself faced with a variety of line options. It's not as easy as picking the first one you see, either; every line is optimised for certain conditions.

It's time to untangle the knot of buying the right lines for fishing. Whether you're a pro or a beginner, this short guide will help you choose the best fishing line for your needs. You can also learn a few other tips and tricks about tackling your rod setup before hitting the water.

Understand the Different Types of Fishing Lines

To start, it's important to understand the three most common types of fishing lines available. They include the monofilament line, the fluorocarbon line, and the braided line. Each is made from a different material and designed for use in certain conditions.

They each come with their own pros and cons, as well. But, before getting to that, you should familiarise yourself with the fourth type of line that's becoming popular: the nanotechnology line. These high-performance lines are created by bonding graphite fibres together, giving them new levels of strength you won't find in other lines.

That said, you likely won't need to buy a nanotechnology line unless you're a professional who does a lot of fishing and needs that level of strength for the job. They're expensive and relatively new to the scene, but it's still good to know they exist.

For beginners, the monofilament line makes for a good starting line. It's made of nylon, comes in a variety of colours, and consists of a single untwisted strand. It's flexible and easy to use, so starters can't go wrong by choosing this line.

You should go with a fluorocarbon line if you're fishing in clear water and want to increase the presentation of your lure. It's clear in colour, which will camouflage its appearance in the water. For beginners, this isn't a bad choice either; it simply trades some flexibility for more durability and an invisible appearance.

The braided fishing line combines polyethene fibres into a woven cluster. Compared to monofilament and fluorocarbon lines, the braided line is stronger, allowing it to cast farther. That said, the line is visible, so you may not get as many fish biting unless you use an invisible leader.

Factor in Fishing Line Strength

Understanding the materials used in fishing lines plays a vital role in picking the right one for you, but it's not the only factor you should consider. Each line can handle certain levels of weight. In other words, you'll want different strengths for small fish and large fish.

For example, if you're looking for the best fishing line for bass, you may want to go with a braided fishing line. With its superior strength, it will make for easier reeling and won't break against the weight of the fish. However, even with the best-braided fishing line, you may get fewer bites due to the visible line.

You can buy all lines at different strengths, so make sure you take a look at the supported weights before buying. If you need advice, don't hesitate to ask the tackle shop owner. You can also find a lot of fishing tips and tricks online for optimal lines based on the fish you're aiming to catch.

In addition to strength is flexibility. More stretch in your line will allow fish to grab ahold better, increasing your chances of landing a catch without it slipping away. Monofilament lines provide that flexibility but tend to snap with heavier weights.

It all comes down to the type of fishing you plan on doing. If you're going to a small pond, you won't need anything heavy-duty. If you're deep-sea fishing, you should go with a braided fishing line for higher levels of strength and weight.

Choose the Right Hook and Accessories for the Job

Of course, the line only makes up part of the equation. For a successful fishing trip, you should consider every factor, from the rod and line to the hook and lure.

Like lines, you can choose from a range of fish hooks. Understanding the different types and styles will help you pick the right one for the job. That said, you have a lot of options from which to select.

For example, you can get a circle hook to decrease your odds of a fish slipping away after biting. You may want a worm hook for a larger, heavier, and more durable option that will keep your bait in place. Some hooks are even optimised for saltwater versus freshwater.

Preparing your fishing rod takes time, and you'll need a tackle box packed with all the tools you'll need. With the right fishing accessories, you can speed up preparation time. For example, you can find tools to help with tying line knots or cutting lines, allowing you to leave the knife and pliers behind.

You should also take a look at the type of fishing line spooler you're using. Depending on the line type, you can wrap more line around the spooler. This may impact your decision about which line you choose.

Preparation is key. If you research everything you need to know before you go fishing, you'll have a more enjoyable and successful experience.

Start Fishing and Adjust Accordingly

With these handy tips, you can feel confident buying the right fishing line for your needs. It doesn't hurt to look at customer reviews to decide what brand you want to choose first. Fishing is all about the experience, too, so the more you fish, the more you'll learn about what line feels best in your hand.

Once you have your line, you should try to minimise the amount of time you spend tending to it, including tying knots. Whether you're a beginner, a recreational fisher, or a professional, tying knots is tedious and never fun.

Learn how the Hook-Eze Knot Tying Tool can make tying easy for everyone right here.