| What to Consider When Buying Line |
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On each spool of line you buy there will be a number indicating its breaking strain. This means that when that amount of pressure is placed on the line it will snap. Most lines, especially unstretched varieties, will take more strain than the stated weight, but always use the breaking strain as a guideline. When buying line you should always consider what type of fishing you will be doing as some lines are made for specific purposes and will not be suitable for general, all-round fishing. If in doubt ask at your tackle shop for advice, telling the assistant what sort of fishing you will be doing. If you intend to be casting great distances you will want a fairly thin line, which will allow you to cast further. Use a line of around 10lb breaking strain, which will be strong enough to play fish on but thin enough to be cast long distances. Back this up with a shock leader if you want to cast extra far and also to be safe. This is a length of line of high breaking strain (1215lb), which is attached to the weaker mainline (10lb) to withstand the punishment of casting a heavy lead a long distance. If you use a shock leader, you must make sure the joining knot (known as the leader knot) can pass through the eye of the lead. If it can't, you will be fishing with what is known as a 'tether rig': any fish that picks up your bait following a crack-off may have to drag your lead and a length of line around with it for a very long time and may even become permanently snagged. If the type of fishing you do is close in and amongst snags then you will want a line which is very abrasion resistant and can cope with being pulled back and forth along tree roots or lily pads. For obvious reasons, always use a thick, higher breaking strain line for this type of fishing. Finally, what you must remember with all lines is that they lose their strength with use and exposure to sunlight/water. As soon as your line shows signs of wear and tear, change it immediately, as it could cost you fish. If you buy a bulk spool of line you should be able to fill at least three or four spools with it, so even the more expensive lines are quite reasonable if bought in bulk. Be aware of this loss of strength when purchasing lines from tackle shops. If you know for certain that a particular spool of line has been on sale for some time, avoid buying it. Also avoid lines for sale in bargain boxes - it is almost certain that they will not be up to scratch. |
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