With so many different types of fishing lines available in the market, it can be overwhelming for beginners and even experienced anglers to choose the right one. In this article, I will discuss the different types of fishing lines and their characteristics to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
In case you are in a hurry, here is a quick summary of the different types of fishing lines.
| Fishing Line Type | Beginner Friendly | Strength | Diameter | Stretch | Sensitivity | Visibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monofilament | Yes | Medium | Medium | High | Medium | Medium |
| Braided | No | High | Thin | Low | High | High |
| Fluorocarbon | No | High | Thin | Low | High | Low |
| Lead Core | No | High | Thick | Low | Low | High |
| Wire | No | High | Thick | Low | Low | High |
| Copolymer | Yes | Medium-High | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium-High |
| Fly Fishing | Yes | Low-medium | Thin | Low-medium | High | Medium |
| Ice Fishing | Yes | Medium | Thin | Low | High | Medium |
Monofilament Fishing Line
Monofilament fishing line is one of the most popular types of fishing lines used by anglers. It is made from a single strand of nylon or other polymers, which gives it its name. It is a versatile line that can be used in different fishing scenarios.
Is It Beginner Friendly?
Monofilament fishing line is an excellent choice for beginners. It is easy to handle and to make fishing knots and is forgiving when it comes to mistakes. It is also affordable, making it a great option for those just starting.
Monofilament Fishing Line Characteristics
- Strength: Monofilament fishing line has moderate strength and can handle a variety of fish sizes.
- Diameter: The diameter of monofilament fishing line is moderate, making it a good all-purpose line.
- Stretch: Monofilament fishing line has a high stretch, which can help absorb shocks and prevent the line from breaking.
- Sensitivity: Monofilament fishing line has a moderate sensitivity, which can help you feel bites and detect movement in the water.
- Visibility: Monofilament fishing line has a medium visibility underwater, which can help you get bites.
- Water Absorption: Monofilament fishing line can absorb water, affecting its strength and performance.
- Memory: Monofilament fishing line can have memory, which means it can retain the shape of the spool and may cause tangles or knots.
- Abrasion Resistance: Monofilament fishing line also has good abrasion resistance, which makes it suitable for fishing in rough or rocky areas.
- Knot Strength: Monofilament fishing line has a moderate knot strength, which means it can handle moderate pulls without breaking.
Monofilament Fishing Line Pros
- It is versatile and can be used in many different fishing scenarios.
- It has some stretch, which can help to absorb shock when setting the hook or fighting a fish.
- It has good abrasion resistance, which makes it suitable for fishing in rough or rocky areas.
- It is affordable and widely available.
Monofilament Fishing Line Cons
- It can have memory, which can cause it to kink or coil.
- It can be visible in clear water, which can spook fish.
- It can lack sensitivity, which can make it difficult to detect bites.
- It can have lower knot strength than other types of fishing lines.
What Type of Fishing Is It Suitable For?
Monofilament fishing line is suitable for many different types of fishing. It can be used for casting, trolling, and retrieving. It is suitable for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Average Cost
The cost of monofilament fishing line can vary depending on the brand and the amount of line purchased. On average, a 300-yard spool of monofilament fishing line can cost between $5 and $20.
Braided Fishing Line
Braided fishing line, also known as braid, is a popular type of fishing line among experienced anglers. It comprises multiple strands of ultra-thin fibers, usually woven together to form a strong and durable line.
Is It Beginner Friendly?
Braided fishing line is not the best option for beginners. It is more difficult to handle and requires more skill to tie knots and cast. It is also more visible in the water, making it harder to catch fish in clear water.
For beginners, starting with monofilament fishing line is recommended, which is easier to handle and more forgiving.
Braided Fishing Line Characteristics
- Strength: Braided fishing line has a high strength-to-diameter ratio, making it stronger than monofilament and fluorocarbon lines of similar diameter.
- Diameter: Braided fishing line has a thin diameter, allowing longer casts and less water resistance.
- Stretch: Braided fishing line has a low stretch, which makes it highly sensitive and allows for better hook sets.
- Sensitivity: Braided fishing line has a high sensitivity, which allows you to feel even the slightest bites and detect movement in the water.
- Visibility: Braided fishing line has high visibility underwater, which can cause fish to be spooked.
- Abrasion Resistance: Braided fishing line is highly abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for fishing around heavy cover or in rocky areas.
- Water Absorption: Braided fishing line has low water absorption, so it won’t weaken or stretch when wet
- Knot Strength: Braided fishing line has a high knot strength, which means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Braided Fishing Line Pros
- High strength-to-diameter ratio is stronger than monofilament and fluorocarbon lines of similar diameter.
- Thin diameter, which allows for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Low stretch makes it highly sensitive and allows for better hook sets.
- High sensitivity allows you to feel even the slightest bites and detect movement in the water.
- Highly abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for fishing around heavy cover or in rocky areas.
- High knot strength means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
- Low water absorption means it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
Braided Fishing Line Cons
- High strength-to-diameter ratio is stronger than monofilament and fluorocarbon lines of similar diameter.
- Thin diameter, which allows for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Low stretch makes it highly sensitive and allows for better hook sets.
- High sensitivity allows you to feel even the slightest bites and detect movement in the water.
- Low visibility, which can be an advantage in clear water conditions.
- Highly abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for fishing around heavy cover or in rocky areas.
- High knot strength means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
- Low water absorption means it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
What Type of Fishing Is It Suitable For?
Braided fishing line is suitable for a variety of fishing techniques, including casting, trolling, and jigging. It is particularly useful for fishing in heavy cover, as it can slice through weeds and vegetation without getting caught up. It is also great for deep dropping and precision jigging.
Average Cost
The cost of braided fishing line varies depending on the brand, the strength, and the length. On average, a 300-yard spool of braided fishing line can cost between $20 and $50. While it may be more expensive than other types of fishing lines, it is a worthwhile investment for experienced anglers who value its unique characteristics.
Fluorocarbon Fishing Line
As an avid angler, I have used many types of fishing lines over the years, but there is something about fluorocarbon fishing lines that sets them apart from the rest.
Is It Beginner Friendly?
Fluorocarbon fishing line is generally stiffer than monofilament and braided lines, which makes it slightly more difficult to handle. Knot tying can also be tricky but can be mastered with practice. Therefore, there may be better options for beginners still learning fishing basics.
Fluorocarbon Characteristics
- Strength: Fluorocarbon fishing line has a high strength-to-diameter ratio, which means it’s stronger than monofilament line of similar diameter.
- Diameter: Fluorocarbon fishing line has a thin diameter, allowing longer casts and less water resistance.
- Stretch: Fluorocarbon fishing line has a low to moderate stretch, which makes it more sensitive than monofilament line and allows for better hook sets.
- Sensitivity: Fluorocarbon fishing line has a high sensitivity, which allows you to feel even the slightest bites and detect movement in the water.
- Visibility: Fluorocarbon fishing line has low visibility making it practically invisible underwater.
- Abrasion Resistance: Fluorocarbon fishing line is highly abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for fishing around heavy cover or in rocky areas.
- Water Absorption: Fluorocarbon fishing line has low water absorption, so it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- Knot Strength: Fluorocarbon fishing line has a high knot strength, which means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Fluorocarbon Fishing Line Pros
- Low visibility makes your fishing line essentially invisible underwater
- High sensitivity allows you to feel even the slightest bites and detect movement in the water.
- High strength-to-diameter ratio means it’s stronger than monofilament line of similar diameter.
- Thin diameter allows for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Low to moderate stretch makes it more sensitive than monofilament line and allows for better hook sets.
- Highly abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for fishing around heavy cover or rocky areas.
- High knot strength means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Fluorocarbon Fishing Line Cons
- More expensive than monofilament line.
- Can be more difficult to handle and may tangle more easily than monofilament line.
- Can be stiffer than monofilament line, which can make it more difficult to cast.
- Can have more memory than monofilament line, which means it can retain the shape of the spool and may cause tangles or knots.
What Type of Fishing Is It Suitable For?
Fluorocarbon fishing line is suitable for a wide range of fishing styles, including finesse fishing, jigging, and drop shotting. It is also an excellent choice for fishing in clear water conditions where fish are more likely to be spooked by visible fishing lines.
Average Cost
Fluorocarbon fishing line can be more expensive than other types of fishing lines, but it is worth the investment for its low visibility and excellent sensitivity. The cost can vary depending on the brand and pound test, but on average, it can range from $15 to $50 for a 300-yard spool.
Lead Core Fishing Line
Lead core fishing line is a type of fishing line with a thin filament of soft flexible lead encased in an outer sheath of woven material that gives the line its strength. It is popular among anglers who want to fish in deep waters or troll for fish.
Is It Beginner Friendly?
Lead core fishing line is not recommended for beginners because it requires some skill and experience to use. It is also more expensive than other types of fishing lines.
Lead Core Fishing Line Characteristics
- Strength: Lead core fishing line has a high strength, making it a good choice for fishing for larger fish species.
- Diameter: Lead core fishing line has a larger diameter than other types of fishing lines, making it more visible underwater.
- Stretch: Lead core fishing line has a low to moderate stretch, which can help with better hook sets.
- Sensitivity: Lead core fishing line is less sensitive than other types of fishing lines, making detecting bites and movement in the water harder.
- Visibility: Lead core fishing line has a high visibility underwater.
- Abrasion Resistance: Lead core fishing line is highly abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for fishing around heavy cover or in rocky areas.
- Water Absorption: Lead core fishing line has low water absorption, which means it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- Knot Strength: Lead core fishing line has a high knot strength, which means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Lead Core Fishing Line Pros
- Suitable for fishing in deep waters
- Allows you to keep the bait at the desired depth
- Can be used for trolling
- Available in different pound tests
Lead Core Fishing Line Cons
- Not beginner-friendly
- More expensive than other types of fishing lines
- Can be difficult to use in windy conditions
What Type of Fishing Is It Suitable For?
Lead core fishing line is suitable for fishing in deep waters or trolling.
Average Cost
The cost of lead core fishing line varies depending on the pound test and brand. On average, it can cost between $30 to $70 for a 300-yard spool. It is more expensive than other types of fishing lines, but it is worth the investment if you want to fish in deep waters or troll for fish.
Wire Fishing Line
Wire fishing line is a great option for anglers looking to catch toothy fish like mackerel and tuna. It can also be used during trolling when reaching deeper depths is important.
Is It Beginner Friendly?
Wire fishing lines may not be the best choice for beginners as they can be difficult to handle due to their stiffness. It requires a bit of skill to tie knots and cast properly.
Wire Fishing Line Characteristics
- Strength: Wire fishing line has a high strength and is resistant to abrasion, making it a good choice for fishing in areas with sharp rocks or other obstacles.
- Diameter: Wire fishing line has a thin diameter, which allows for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Stretch: Wire fishing line has almost no stretch, which makes it less forgiving than other types of fishing lines.
- Sensitivity: Wire fishing line has a high sensitivity, which allows you to feel even the slightest bites and detect movement in the water.
- Visibility: Wire fishing line has a high visibility underwater due to its metallic color.
- Abrasion Resistance: Wire fishing line is highly abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for fishing around heavy cover or in rocky areas.
- Water Absorption: Wire fishing line does not absorb water, which means it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- Knot Strength: Wire fishing line has a high knot strength, which means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Wire Fishing Line Pros
- High strength and abrasion resistance make it suitable for fishing in areas with sharp rocks or other obstacles.
- Thin diameter allows for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Almost no stretch makes it highly sensitive and allows you to feel even the slightest bites.
- High visibility due to its metallic color can be advantageous in some fishing situations.
- It does not absorb water, so it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- High knot strength means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Wire Fishing Line Cons
- High visibility can be a disadvantage in some fishing situations, especially finesse fishing or fishing in low-light conditions.
- Can be difficult to handle and may tangle more easily than other types of fishing lines.
- Not suitable for finesse fishing or fishing in low-light conditions due to its high visibility.
- May require additional equipment, such as wire leaders or swivels, to prevent line twist or breakage.
- Can be more expensive than other types of fishing lines.
- Not suitable for all types of fishing, primarily used for trolling.
What Type of Fishing Is It Suitable For?
Wire fishing line is suitable for catching toothy fish like mackerel and tuna. It is also good for trolling and deep fishing.
Average Cost
The cost of wire fishing line varies depending on the brand and the length of the line. On average, it can cost around $20-$50 for a 300-yard spool.
Copolymer Fishing Line
Copolymer fishing line is one of the most popular options on the market, and for good reason.
Is It Beginner Friendly?
Copolymer fishing line is a great option for beginners. It is easy to handle and knot, making it ideal for those who are new to fishing. Additionally, it is more forgiving than other types of fishing lines and less likely for it to break or tangle.
Copolymer Fishing Line Characteristics
- Strength: Copolymer fishing line has a high strength-to-diameter ratio, making it a good choice for fishing for larger fish species.
- Diameter: Copolymer fishing line has a thin diameter, which allows for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Stretch: Copolymer fishing line has a moderate stretch, which can help with better hook sets and reduce the risk of breaking off.
- Sensitivity: Copolymer fishing line has a high sensitivity, which allows you to feel even the slightest bites and detect movement in the water.
- Visibility: Copolymer fishing line has a low visibility due to its clear or low-visibility color options.
- Abrasion Resistance: Copolymer fishing line is highly abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for fishing around heavy cover or in rocky areas.
- Water Absorption: Copolymer fishing line has a low water absorption, which means it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- Knot Strength: Copolymer fishing line has a high knot strength, which means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Copolymer Fishing Line Pros
- High strength-to-diameter ratio, making it a good choice for fishing for larger fish species.
- Thin diameter allows for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Moderate stretch can help with better hook sets and reduce the risk of breaking off.
- High sensitivity allows you to feel even the slightest bites and detect movement in the water.
- Low visibility due to its clear or low-visibility color options.
- Highly abrasion-resistant, making it a good choice for fishing around heavy cover or in rocky areas.
- Low water absorption means it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- High knot strength means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Copolymer Fishing Line Cons
- Can be more visible in the water than fluorocarbon or braided fishing line.
- May not have the same sensitivity as fluorocarbon fishing line.
- Can be stiffer than other types of fishing lines, which can affect casting distance and accuracy.
- May require more frequent line changes compared to fluorocarbon fishing line.
- Can be more expensive than monofilament fishing line.
- May not be suitable for finesse fishing techniques that require a more subtle presentation.
What Type of Fishing Is It Suitable For?
Copolymer fishing line is suitable for a wide range of fishing applications. It is a great all-purpose line that can be used for freshwater and saltwater fishing. It is particularly well-suited for finesse fishing, such as drop-shotting and wacky rigging. It is also good for fishing in clear water or around structures.
Average Cost
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $30 for a 300-yard spool of copolymer fishing line, depending on the brand and pound test.
Fly Fishing Line
Fly fishing line is an essential component of any fly fishing setup, and choosing the right line can make all the difference in your success on the water.
Is It Beginner Friendly?
Fly fishing line can be a bit daunting for beginners and requires a bit of knowledge and skill to cast effectively. However, beginner-friendly fly fishing lines are on the market designed to make learning to cast easier.
Fly Fishing Line Characteristics
- Strength: Fly fishing line has a high strength-to-weight ratio, which allows for casting larger flies and fighting larger fish.
- Diameter: The fly fishing line has a thin diameter, allowing for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Stretch: Fly fishing line has a low stretch, which makes it highly sensitive and allows you to feel even the slightest bites.
- Sensitivity: Fly fishing line has a high sensitivity, which allows you to detect movement in the water and feel even the slightest bites.
- Visibility: Fly fishing line is visible underwater but comes in various colors, including low-visibility options.
- Abrasion Resistance: Fly fishing line is typically coated with a protective layer that provides good abrasion resistance.
- Water Absorption: Fly fishing line does not absorb water, so it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- Knot Strength: Fly fishing line has a high knot strength, which means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Fly Fishing Line Pros
- High strength-to-weight ratio allows for casting larger flies and fighting larger fish.
- Thin diameter allows for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Low stretch makes it highly sensitive and allows you to feel even the slightest bites.
- High sensitivity lets you detect movement in the water and feel even the slightest bites.
- Variety of color options, including high-visibility and low-visibility options.
- Coated with a protective layer that provides good abrasion resistance.
- Does not absorb water, so it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- High knot strength means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Fly Fishing Line Cons
- Can be more expensive than other types of fishing lines.
- Typically used only for fly fishing.
- May require additional equipment such as a tapered leader and tippet for a more delicate presentation and stealth in the water.
- May not be suitable for all types of fishing, primarily used for fly fishing.
- Can be more visible in water than fluorocarbon or other low-visibility fishing lines.
- May not have the same abrasion resistance as other types of fishing lines.
What Type of Fishing Is It Suitable For?
Fly fishing line is suitable for various fishing techniques, including dry fly fishing, nymph fishing, and streamer fishing. The type of fishing line you choose will depend on your fishing style and the fish you’re targeting.
Average Cost
Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 for a 300-yards. While this may seem expensive compared to a traditional fishing line, it’s important to remember fishing line is a crucial component of your fly fishing setup.
Ice Fishing Line
Ice fishing is a unique type of fishing that requires specialized gear, including fishing lines.
Is It Beginner Friendly?
Ice fishing lines can be used by beginners and experienced anglers. However, it is important to note that ice fishing requires some knowledge and skill, so beginners may want to start with a more basic style of fishing.
Ice Fishing Lines Characteristics
- Strength: Ice fishing line has a high strength-to-diameter ratio, which allows for fishing for larger fish species.
- Diameter: Ice fishing line has a thin diameter, which allows for longer casts and less water resistance.
- Stretch: Ice fishing line has a low stretch, which makes it highly sensitive and allows you to feel even the slightest bites.
- Sensitivity: Ice fishing line has a high sensitivity, which allows you to detect movement in the water and feel even the slightest bites.
- Visibility: Ice fishing line can have low to moderate visibility underwater, be sure to select the best line colour for your conditions.
- Abrasion Resistance: Ice fishing line is typically coated with a protective layer that provides good abrasion resistance.
- Water Absorption: Ice fishing line does not absorb water, which means it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- Knot Strength: Ice fishing line has a high knot strength, which means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Ice Fishing Line Pros
- High strength-to-diameter ratio, making it a good choice for fishing for larger fish.
- Low stretch can help with better hook sets and reduce the risk of breaking off.
- High sensitivity allows you to feel the slightest bites and detect movement in the water.
- Variety of colour options to camouflage it to the environment
- Coated with a protective layer that provides good abrasion resistance.
- Does not absorb water, so it won’t weaken or stretch when wet.
- High knot strength means it can handle strong and sudden pulls without breaking.
Ice Fishing Line Cons
- Typically used only for ice fishing.
- May not have the same sensitivity as fluorocarbon fishing line.
- Can be more visible in water than fluorocarbon or other low-visibility fishing lines.
- May not have the same abrasion resistance as other types of fishing lines.
- Can be more expensive than monofilament fishing line.
- May require more frequent line changes compared to fluorocarbon fishing lines.
- May not be suitable for finesse fishing techniques that require a more subtle presentation.
What Type of Fishing Is It Suitable For?
Ice fishing lines are best suited for ice fishing, which typically involves catching fish through a hole in the ice.
Average Cost
On average, a good quality ice fishing line can cost anywhere from $10 to $30 for a 300-yard spool. Investing in a high-quality line that will perform well in cold temperatures and last for multiple fishing trips is important.