Equitment - Line

Whatever else you use to get fish to bite, it's the line that lets you bring them in. The most popular lines today are nylon monofilament lines, or "mono." Stretchy, thin, strong, and cheap, mono" advantages still outweigh those of any alternatives.

The main characteristic of line is its breaking strength when wet, rated in "lbs. Test." For example, a fresh line rated at "10 lbs. test" shouldn't break unless subjected to a steady pull of more than 10 pounds. How heavy a line should you use? In general, light lines cast farther, allow your lure to have better action, and are somewhat less visible to the fish. They also break more easily and may be too elastic to let you feel some strikes, especially with worms and other soft baits. Heavier mono lines are stronger and less elastic, which may give you a better feel for the lure with jigs and soft baits.  But their increased thickness also makes them harder to cast long distances, dampens your lure's action, and keeps diving lures from going as deep as possible. In general, you should use the lightest line you can given the fish, the cover, and the technique.

In addition to strength rating, mono lines also tend to emphasize either limpness or toughness. A limp line is relatively soft and flexible and runs out smoothly through the rod guides so you can cast it farther. However, its soft finish tends to be easily nicked or scraped when you're fishing it around cover. On the other hand, a tough line has a hard finish designed to last longer in heavy cover. The downside is that tough lines tend to be relatively stiff, more likely to coil up and snarl, and don't cast as well.

Light or heavy, limp or tough, no line is stronger than its weakest point. Check yours every few casts any rough spots, nicks, or strained knots can reduce its strength by half or more. When tightening knots, be sure to wet the knot and snug it up in a smooth motion, or the friction may heat the line and seriously weaken it. In addition to wear and tear, ordinary sunlight will degrade mono over time, and DEET-based insect repellents can weaken it quickly. When in doubt, remove or replace it. But remember to keep any used line you discard or find. Monofilament is a particularly nasty form of litter that lasts for years and can snare all kinds of wildlife. Most sporting good stores and manufacturers will happily recycle used line for you.