The "Three Musketeers" of Lure Fishing Lines: Monofilament, Fluorocarbon, and PE Line
Lure fishing lines are mainly divided into three categories, each with its unique advantages and different applications:
- Transparent single-strand line, soft, and has good stretch.
- Transparent single-strand line, good water cutting, high abrasion resistance, and excellent stealth in the water.
- Made by braiding multiple strands of material (such as 4-strand, 8-strand, 12-strand), offering high strength, thin diameter, and zero stretch.
PE Line Advanced: 4-Strand vs. 8/12-Strand, How to Choose?
PE line is the most commonly used type of line by lure anglers because it possesses the twin advantages of being both "thin" and "strong." It offers excellent sensitivity, making it highly effective whether you're targeting North American Largemouth Bass (best fishing line for bass fishing), European Pike, or Australian Giant Groupers. However, PE lines are further divided into 4-strand, 8-strand, and 12-strand varieties. Their main differences are:
Advantages of 4-Strand Line
Since the individual strands in 4-strand line are thicker, the line body is less smooth. This gives it greater abrasion resistance and makes it less prone to breaking when encountering underwater snags or structure.
Recommended Scenarios: Suitable for situations where the underwater structure is complex, there is a high risk of snagging (getting stuck), or when extreme long-distance casting is not required (for example, techniques like bouncing baits off the bottom, or fishing in heavy cover/obstacle areas).
Advantages of 8-Strand / 12-Strand Line
The more strands braided, the finer and smoother the line body is. This results in less friction through the guides, making casting smoother and longer.
Recommended Scenarios: Suitable for anglers who are pursuing maximum casting distance (such as saltwater fishing, or searching large bodies of water), as well as experienced anglers who prioritize extreme sensitivity and finesse.
Practical Tip: If your budget allows and you seek the ultimate casting experience, consider the 12-strand line. If you need more durability and abrasion resistance, the 4-strand line is a more cost-effective choice. REeffun also has a series of such excellent products [Product Placement], designed for various fishing environments to meet your diverse needs.
New Anglers Look Here! Your Recommended Line Fish and Anti-Backlash Tips
Now, here is the key point. For new anglers just starting with lure fishing and learning how to use the best fishing line for spinning reels, I strongly recommend starting with Monofilament line!
Why Should Beginners Choose Monofilament Line?
Compared to PE line, the biggest advantage of Monofilament is that it is easier to untangle after a "backlash" (bird's nest). When learning to cast, backlashing is almost inevitable. Even with a severe backlash, you have a high chance of untangling the Monofilament line, saving the entire spool and preventing you from quitting the hobby prematurely.
Monofilament line is affordable, allowing you to practice casting without financial stress.
Quick Tip: How to Untangle a Monofilament Backlash?
- Gently pull on the main line to find the loosest loop.
- Using your finger or a tool, gently pick out the loosest loop of line.
- Be patient and untangle layer by layer; do not use brute force. The elasticity (stretch) of Monofilament line will be a great help to you.
Common Foreign Fish Species
When selecting line diameter, focus on the target species. For example, when fishing for Trout or small Bass, common line fish in North America, a 4-8 lb Monofilament line is sufficient. If targeting large Carp in Europe or Mediterranean Sea Bass, a stronger line will be needed. Remember, the line setup, rod, and reel must be compatible. REeffun also has a series of such excellent products that can offer line setup advice from beginner to professional levels.
Advanced: How to Pair Your Spinning Reel
When selecting the best fishing line for spinning reels, the line type and pound test must match your reel size. Due to its unique spooling method, the spinning reel is quite sensitive to the line's coil memory.
- Monofilament: Soft Monofilament line is better suited for spinning reels as it reduces line twist, making casting smoother.
- PE Line: If you are using PE line, you must pair it with Fluorocarbon or Monofilament line as a leader, in order to prevent the PE line from being worn down or abraded directly underwater.
❌ Common Mistake
Common Mistake: Many beginners assume that PE line is superior because it is thinner and stronger, and they start using it immediately. However, when PE line backlashes (birdnests), it is usually very difficult to fix, which often severely discourages new anglers. Please start with Monofilament line, and switch to PE line only after your casting technique is stable.
I hope this guide helps you better understand and choose your lure fishing line. Fishing is a sport that requires patience, and selecting the right gear is the first step to enjoying it.
If you found these tips useful, don't forget to share them with your fishing buddies who are struggling with line selection or constantly battling backlashes!
