Fishing Line and Terminal Tackle: Line Types and Hooks

Mono, braid or fluorocarbon: how each line behaves

Monofilament is the all-rounder: it stretches a little, ties easily and absorbs shocks, which forgives mistakes. Braided line, usually made from polyethylene fibers, has almost no stretch and a thin diameter for its strength, giving sensitivity and long casts, but it needs a sharp cutter. Fluorocarbon sinks, is hard to see underwater and resists abrasion, so it is often used as a leader. Some lines are copolymer blends.

Color matters less than the type. Clear, gray and green lines are meant to be hard for fish to see, while yellow is easy for you to follow on the water, which helps when fishing braid at distance. Many anglers tie a short clear fluorocarbon leader to the end. Read the spool label for diameter as well as strength, because braid of the same pound rating is far thinner than monofilament.

Pound test, yardage and hook strength: the numbers to read

Line is rated by pound test, its breaking strength, such as 8 lb, 10 lb or 20 lb, and sold by length in yards. Pick a strength inside your rod and reel's range and enough yardage to fill the spool without overfilling it. A lighter line casts farther and is harder for fish to see, while a heavier line resists abrasion on rocks and cover.

Hooks are chosen by pattern, size and wire strength. Octopus hooks suit bait fishing, and circle hooks are designed to slide to the corner of the mouth so the fish hooks itself. Marks such as 2X or 5X strong mean heavier wire that resists bending under big fish. Rigs with steel wire resist the teeth of some fish, and a swivel in the rig reduces line twist.

Questions about Fishing Line and Terminal Tackle: Line Types and Hooks

What does pound test mean on fishing line?

It is the breaking strength of the line under a steady pull, shown in pounds, such as 10 lb. Wet knots and abrasion lower it in practice. Choose a rating inside the range printed on your rod and reel, and go heavier around cover and lighter for finesse.

What does 2X strong mean on a hook?

It means the hook is made from heavier wire than normal for its size, like the wire of a hook two sizes larger. That resists bending under strain, but heavier wire can be harder to set in a small fish's mouth, so match it to the fish.

Do I need a leader with braided line?

Often yes. Braid is visible and can be cut by teeth or rocks, so a few feet of fluorocarbon or steel leader is tied between the braid and the lure. The leader also adds a little stretch. Use a knot rated for joining braid to leader.