Not all fishing lines for saltwater fishing are the same. Check out the different types for their advantages to get the best one for you!
It wasn’t all that long ago when there wasn’t much of a choice when it came to fishing lines. But then again, saltwater anglers are always looking for something better to use, so eventually more options became available. But with 3 top choices, you may find yourself debating the merits of each one. So before you head on out to Eat My Tackle to get your fishing lines and other saltwater fishing gear, let’s take a closer look at each fishing line option:
- Nylon monofilament. This is the traditional option, and it still retains the highest share among the different types of fishing lines. Despite the introduction of other types, it remains popular due to its inexpensive price.
But it’s not just the price tag that makes it so highly regarded. When it’s new, it casts great. The knots in the monofilament also hold much better. Also, there’s a natural stretch that offers some advantages in a wide range of uses. All in all, when you get enough experience with it then you’ll get great value for the price. It’s great for new anglers.
Of course, it’s not perfect. Because of the stretch, when under strain the stretch will absorb or dampen the lighter hits so you may not notice them. The stretch also makes it harder for you to turn a fish from obstructions.
It’s also not all that resistant to abrasion, so it isn’t always suitable in docks and rocks. Over time, its shape changes to mimic the shape of the spool so you don’t get as much distance in your casts. And if you leave it under the sun, it will dry out and reduce its effectiveness as well.
- Fluorocarbon. Its refractive index of fluorocarbon is like water, so in the water it’s virtually invisible. This makes it great to use in clear water where fish can be somewhat picky. It’s also very resistant to abrasion, so for docks and fishing among rocks it’s great. The stretch is also slight, so it’s very much different from nylon monofilament.
Additional benefits include resistance to UV rays so that it doesn’t break down under long periods under the sun, which is a plus for saltwater fishing. It also doesn’t take on the shape of the spool that much and it even sinks quickly.
- Braided. These braided lines are often made of some secret synthetic formula, but what they have in common is that they’re all woven like a rope. So what you get is a much thinner line than fluorocarbon or monofilament, yet you get the same strength. The thinness means it’s suppler, so you can make your casts at a much farther distance.
Perhaps the most notable feature is that there’s virtually no stretch to worry about. This means you’ll get a much greater feel for the fish. You’ll detect the lightest hits and you’re more sensitive to their movements. This also means that the hook sets more solidly and you get more force when you play with the fish.
Braids are becoming more advanced as time passes, and they offer more advantages than ever before.
So a fishing line nowadays is not like any other fishing line. Choose well and good luck!
