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What To Look For
Berkley Trilene XL fishing line comes in different pound test strengths, ranging from a low of 2-pound test to a high of 30. You should buy a test that is best for the species of fish you target most. If you fish for crappies and bluegills, 4-pound test is plenty. Bass fishermen will want to have the 10- to 12-pound test while pike anglers will need the 17- to 20-pound test Berkley Trilene XL line. You can purchase the line on a 3,000-yard spool, but it is more commonly available in 110, 220 and 330 yards. The line has low memory, meaning it will not twist up after multiple casts. It 's strong, easy to tie knots in, comes off the reel and through the rod guides smoothly, has low visibility in the water and generally is among the best casting lines on the market.
Common Pitfalls
The strength of this line is very good for monofilament but still cannot match that of braided or fluorocarbon lines. An angler who fishes with Berkley Trilene XL in heavy weeds or around cover such as brush or stumps will find it breaks when he tries to muscle fish out of such scenarios. Like all monofilaments, it is subject to stretching when used repeatedly because it absorbs water. This can make setting the hook in big fish a bit more difficult than with braided and fluorocarbon lines.
Where To Buy
Berkley Trilene XL is available at stores like Dick's Sporting Goods, most local bait and tackle shops and big chain stores such as Walmart. It is also available online through fishing supply companies and the Berkley website. This line will be in stores from before opening day to the end of the warm weather fishing season and in some stores year round.
Cost
The highest pound tests cost the most. The 30-pound Berkley Trilene XL goes for about $10 for a 330-yard spool. Lower pound tests in the single digits cost around $7, and medium-test lines in the 10 to 20 range cost a bit more at almost $8.