Saltwater Line Characteristics
There are four characteristics that are taken into account when choosing the best saltwater line. The line's diameter, resistance to abrasion, color, and stiffness or limpness are all taken into account.
The line's diameter determines the line's strength and durability. Most spools of line will be rated for the conditions for which they are best suited. Since saltwater fishing lines endure harsh conditions, you'll want a line with good abrasion resistance. The color of the line is a factor if you either do or don't want to see the line. Stiffness and limpness is a factor because the stronger the line, the stiffer it will be. This comes into play when determining what reel to use.
Monofilament
You can find monofilament under quite a few manufacturer's names. It comes in a variety of strengths and colors. Since monofilament is not as pricey as some of the other types of line, it's the most popular with saltwater anglers. Monofilament can be used for all types of fishing and sizes of fish. As with all types of fishing line, it should be replaced at least once a year due to brittleness and memory. While fishing, check your line by the rig area for any nicks from fish bites, as the line can break in that area. Cut the line above the nicked area and re-tie your rig. Downfalls of using monofilament are that it can stretch and retain water.
Braided
Braided fishing lines have a small diameter, but are known for their added strength while still keeping their sensitivity. The braided line is made out of nylon, which keeps the line quite thin. Some brands have added a coating to the braid to hold it together. This coating increases the line's strength as well as its durability. The drawbacks with braided lines are that their limpness can cause casting difficulties, knots recommended by the manufacturer are required to keep the lure on and if some of the braid strands break, the line will become weaker and possibly break. Cut your line above the break and re-tie your rig.
Fusion
Fusion lines are braided lines, but the microfiber has been fused together. This retains the line's strength and sensitivity, while keeping a small line diameter. Some experts believe these type of saltwater lines are easier to cast and still achieve distance. It's also cautioned that fusion lines have a limited stretch ability. This is a good thing when setting the hook on a fish.
Fluorocarbons
Fluorocarbon lines are the latest advancement in fishing line. These lines are a polymer of fluoride that's then bonded to carbon. There are several advantages in using fluorocarbon line. This type of saltwater line is basically invisible in the water, but still can be seen out of the water. It's quite durable as it's unaffected by ultraviolet rays, it doesn't absorb water, it has low stretch but maintains sensitivity and it's stiffness allows lures to sink quicker and go deeper.
