When we were much younger, everything seemed to be so much easier when we wanted to fish. All we really cared about was having the pup travelling along with us, any rod would do and the little two-tray tackle box. We didn’t need much, hooks and sinkers did it for us. We didn’t really pay much attention to what we were using for line and regardless, we felt that we caught the best fish! Today, look around and see how many rods and reels you now own and check out how many different types of line you now have stashed away in the closet.

The fishing tackle industry has managed to come up with a staggering variety of line types. The categories are easily defined as monofilament, braided and fluorocarbon and depending on whether you enjoy freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing or offshore you’ll want to use the line that is most beneficial to what you’re doing.

Since monofilament line is the most common, we’ll discuss this type of line first. Monofilament is inexpensive, strong and remains the most used fishing line on the market. Since it’s somewhat pliable, and stretches if it’s under tension, monofilament line is great if you find yourself with an aggressive fish on your line.

Monofilament is not without its problems. The coils of monofilament tend to get coils in them that are remembered when you spiral off your spool and cast. This can create knots in the wrong places at the wrong times. Other issues are created by the stretch that’s available in the line – stop and think what could happen if you’re trying to pull a large fish out of a thick of weeds or preventing that oversized catch from sneaking off between some rocks – monofilament won’t be a big help in these cases.

Some of the issues with monofilament line can be avoided by switching to a braided line – though braided lines have their own issues. One of the most significant pitfalls to the braided line is its visibility. Braided line is best if used with a low or non-visibility leader or the fish will have too much warning! One of the best things about braided line is unlike its cousin the monofilament line it doesn’t have a great memory and is far less likely to develop knots as a result of coils and kinks. Another great thing about braided line is that it is very thin and also very strong. An eight pound monofilament line is about the same diameter as a thirty pound braided line – and it is great for fishing for small mouth bass or trout. Due to braided lines low abrasion resistance it is not the best line if you’re going to be fishing in an area that will cause your line to rub a great deal.

Initial marketing efforts of fluorocarbon lines were challenging – many anglers felt that its rigidity made spooling a challenge and that casting was problematic. Once fluorocarbon lines were enhanced, many fishermen discovered that this now popular line solved more problems than it caused. The fluorocarbon line is nearly invisible underwater which makes it perfect for those shallow waters and is also effective in deep water that’s clear. Many elect to create their leaders from fluorocarbons because it is highly abrasion resistant.

Regardless of what type of fishing you are doing, you will find the right line to make your experience fun and exciting. Remember, that the right line can make a difference between the numbers of fish you bring home at the end of the day. While fishing might have been a lot easier when we were young, familiarizing ourselves with the tools that allow us to keep bringing home bigger and better fish makes it even more exciting. Combine your knowledge of lines with your knowledge of lures and while it may not seem like it’s as easy as it used to be, fishing is still an exciting adventure regardless of your age. Sure, it may not be easier, but your increased knowledge and wisdom make it more fun and even more productive.

There are many different fishing supplies out on the market today. Some of the most popular supplies include: Daiwa BG90, Shimano Calcutta Spinning, and Daiwa Rods.