How do I Compare Fishing Lines?

fishing reel image by Brett Mulcahy from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Angling for any size fish requires some understanding of fishing tackle. All fishing line is rated based on several factors. Anglers can choose among a variety of fishing lines---each designed to increase the potential for a strike when used in specific water conditions. Choose the most efficient and affordable fishing line for your fishing reel based on a few selection criteria.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Factor in what type of fishing you plan to do when purchasing line. Opt for fluorocarbon line when fishing shallow waters. Its narrow diameter makes the line virtually invisible. Choose braided line for deep water applications. Its thick construction---made from multiple fiber strands braided together---is ideal for large game fish. Stick with monofilament fishing line for general fishing applications. Its cheap price tag and durable construction makes it a standard fishing line.

Step 2

Compare by pound test. All fishing line, regardless of the type, is rated to hold a maximum amount of weight before breakage occurs. Check the spool for the pound test and determine if it is sufficient for the fish species you want to catch.

Step 3

Evaluate the quality of the line. Choose a fishing line with the lowest diameter for the pound-test range you need. Thickness increases visibility, which can lead to fewer strikes.

Step 4

Rate line features. For example, braided lines are rated for heavy action reels and treated with an anti-abrasion coating. Look for other treatments such as anti-tangle and silicone---for added buoyancy and flotation.

Step 5

Consider price as compared to yards of fishing line. Shop around and compare pricing based on how much fishing line is on each spool. For example, fluorocarbon typically costs more, but offers less length than monofilament fishing line, for instance.

Tips & Warnings

Purchase fishing line in bulk to drive down costs over the entire season.

Never store fishing line in the sun. Line breakage can occur.

Resources

Fin Talk: Fishing Knots

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...