This has probably happened to every fisherman at some point – you feel a huge fish tugging at the end of your line, but while reeling it in the line breaks! You lose the catch. This happens all the time to anglers that have not invested in good quality lines, or ones that just got a bit unlucky. If you want to reel in your next big catch, without the line snapping you may want to make sure you have the best monofilament line for your needs.
In this article, we are going to go over the key considerations when choosing a monofilament line, as well as some of our top recommended lines.
Quick Links:
Best Mono Lines|Key Considerations When Choosing
Table Of Contents
Top 6 Best Mono Fishing Lines
1.Berkley Trilene XL Smooth Casting
Berkley Trilene XL Monofilament Fishing Line
This is a classic for any angler- making it our pick for the best monofilament fishing line. The line is durable, smooth, and very strong. Plus, you can buy it in different weights depending on the type of fish you plan to catch.
The quality of the monoline in this spool sets the standard for anglers everywhere – whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, you will appreciate this product.
Berkley Trilene spools can resist kinks in the line and are abrasion-resistant, giving you more control while casting. If you are looking for a spool to return to for years to come, this is our top recommendation for a light mono line.
Overall, we preferred this brand the most out of the lines we tested. If you want to try one of the best-rated lines for baitcasters, this is our choice.
View on Amazon | View On Berkley
2.Berkley Trilene Big Game Custom Spool
Trilene Berkley Big Game Mono Fishing Line
The Berkley Trilene Big Game spool has an amazing value for the price tag, as it is great at reeling in big fish. This is one of the best monofilament fishing lines because it is geared towards managing the weight of large game without breaking.
It is abrasion-resistant and will hold its own when encountering a sharp edge so that it does not snap. Plus, this product is high ranking and received a lot of praise from users. Many enjoy that the price can be super low, depending on the type of fish they are trying to catch. Others stated that they have been using this exact line for years and have no desire to change to a different one.
In short, if you need a monofilament line that holds up against the strongest game and is still cost-effective, then we would offer you this brand.
View On Amazon | View On Berkley
3.KastKing World’s Premium Monofilament Fishing Line
KastKing Monofilament Fishing Line
KastKing is still the number 1 bestseller out of all the premium fishing lines. They are cost-efficient and do an amazing job. This spool is made of nylon materials, which are great for tying knots over lures, making them superior if you fish for bass.
Because of the nylon material, this line is abrasion-resistant, memory resistant, and can last you years. The durable qualities of this material make it perfect for increasing your ability to catch heavy game. Plus, this monofilament works well with both saltwater and freshwater.
The users of this product tend to stick with KastKing for years, due to their fair pricing and quality lines. Many say that this spool lasted them years and enjoyed that they offered strings for different weights. Overall, we think that this is another quality KastKing product and worth checking out.
View On Amazon | View On KastKing
4. Stren High Impact Monofilament Fishing Line
Stren Monofilament Fishing Line
This is one of the most widely purchased mono lines on Amazon. It has thousands of amazing reviews. If you want a line that has been heavily tested and used at a reasonable cost, this is a great option.
It comes in a variety of colors and weights, meaning you can use this line in just about every fishing situation.
This line works in both freshwater and saltwater, and has really low visibility in the water, making it great for some of those more finicky fish.
5. KastKing DuraBlend Monofilament Leader Line
KastKing DuraBlend Monofilament Leader Line
If you are in need of a saltwater line to use as a leader, this is an incredibly solid option. With 20-200 pound strength options, you can find a line nearly perfect for any situation, and this line has proven to be extremely durable, reliable, and relatively invisible in the water.
The reviews on Amazon speak to the amount of anglers that have had great experiences here. This particular leader simply appears to hold up to abbraision much better than similar lines.
When comparing the strength to diameter ratio, this line is comparable to much more expensive options, which is why we bring this into our list.
View On Amazon | View On KastKing
6. Stren Original Monofilament Fishing Line
Strens Original is also one of the most popular fishing lines in the world. Stren touts that the IFGA world record Marlin was caught on their line. Many saltwater anglers rely on various strength Stren lines. This line has great abrasion resistance and consistent stretch. It has various breaking strengths available, is affordable, extremely consistent, and therefore used by large variety of anglers.
View On Amazon | View On Bass Pro Shops
Key Consideration: How To Choose A Monofilament Line
Know the Line Strength / Weight
Be sure that you choose one that matches the pound test you need. This is the measurement of how much stress can be put onto a monofilament line before it breaks. If you ignore this number, you could run into issues when trying to reel in your catch, or be missing out on fish because your line is too visible.
Every spool out there has a label on it that shows what level of pound test it can hold. Being aware of the line strength will be helpful to you, so be sure you remember to check it out before you buy the product. You may want to check out our article:How To Spool Your Spinning Reel.
If you are not sure about what you need, your local store where you buy fishing products has employees that are passionate about their work. We are sure that they would love to help you pick out a fishing line, tackles, bait- and everything else in between. Regardless, here is a little chart for you:
| Type of Fishing | Weight | Target Species |
|---|---|---|
| Freshwater | 2-4 lbs | Trout, Panfish |
| 6-12 lbs | Bass, Catfish, Walleye, Salmon | |
| 14-20+ lbs | Catfish, Stripers, Pike/Musky | |
| Saltwater | 8-14 lbs | Sea Trout, Flounder, Sea Bass |
| 16-25 lbs | Redfish, Stripers, Blues, Sea Trout | |
| 30+ lbs | Tuna, Marlin, Shark |
Line Memory
Line memory refers for the ability of a line to not stay in tight circles when unraveled. A high quality line will have little memory, and remain straight longer than other lines. Usually lines that have low memory are more expensive, but worth it as they avoid nots and are better for setting hooks and seeing bites.
If you fish very infrequently, storing your rod for long periods of time can lead to lots of loops in your line. If you don’t fish frequently, or take a long break, it is encouraged to re-spool your rod.
Low Memory Vs High Memory Line
Sink Rate
Monofilament line tends to float very well compared to other types of line. This makes it an optimal choice for many anglers doing topwater fishing. Overtime most monofilament lines absorb moisture which makes it sink more over time. So replacing mono every once in a while is often necessary. Monofilament is generally the least expensive line, so this isn’t a big deal!
Monofilament Vs. Braided Line – When To Use Each
This is a common debate among anglers. Monofilament line is less visible in the water, so for picky fish, you’ll want a mono line.
When trolling for large fish, anglers often use mono line because it has stretch that will prevent rod damage and line snappings.
Braided line is thinner, meaning you can put more line on your spool, cast farther, and reel a little smoother through the water. So when big casting is needed, anglers often go for braided line as well. The fact that the line doesn’t have as much stretch can also help with better hook sets.
When fishing near structures, or treed areas, or bushes, anglers often switch to braided line due to its durability and resistance. The choice can be tough, but simply understand the pros and cons identified above, and you can make the right decision.
Monofilament Vs. Fluorocarbon
Monofilament is less expensive than fluorocarbon. Fluorocarbon is more transparent than monofilament, it tends to be a bit stronger when compared to the same diameter monofilament, and is more abrasion proof. Fluorocarbon tends to be less buoyant, so it is better for those using sub surface lures.
Mono line is simply a lot cheaper than fluorocarbon, which makes it more popular.
Line Color
The popular monofilament colors are clear, blue, pink, and hi-vis yellow. Really, any line will work, but certain lines are better in certain fishing conditions.
Clear:The most versatile line color.
Blue:Another versatile line, maybe slighly better for more blue water, say, offshore fishing.
Pink:Often used in white sand areas for visibility.
Hi-Vis Yellow:For use in night fishing, or any situations where it is helpful for the angler to be able to see the line.
Line Thickness
When comparing mono lines, you’ll want a line that is strong, but has a thinner line thickness. The thicker the line, the less line you’ll get on your spool. More expensive lines are stronger, with a smaller diameter. So know your situation, and understand that you may have to pay more for a line that has the same strength as another line while having a smaller diameter. Fluorocarbon and Braided line tend to be stronger than monofilament line, so you’ll need a thinner diameter for the same weight. This is something to always pay attention to.
Other Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Line:
- Know your target species beforehand, this determines the strength you need.
- Know your fishing area, this determines the pound test you need.
- Obviously larger fish need larger test line. In an area with a lot of debris or structure, you may also want heavier test line.
- Think about your gear, lighter rods do not work well with heavier fishing lines and vice-versa.
- Think about the location and type of fishing
- Will you be fishing top water?
- Will you be in a sandy area? Low visibility?
- Consider the right line color and weight based on location.
Beginners can often feel overwhelmed when purchasing their first set of fishing gear. However, as long as you keep the above information in the back of your mind while shopping, you will have a much easier time finding what works best for you and what you want to catch.
All of the top lines we mentioned on this list are reliable brands and products to choose from. If you are still having a difficult time figuring out what you want, then any of these options should be a good place to start.
Most of our picks above, and all lines for that matter, have different options (line weight and color) for you to choose for your situation.
Take Away
The best monofilament lines are cheap and efficient, meaning that you can still buy them on a budget if you need to. Mono tends to need to be replaced more frequently, but the low cost makes that really not a big deal.
Conclusion
All of these products work well, you can not go wrong with any of them.
Many of these lines come in different sizes, weights, and pound tests. That way, you can check them out and decide which brand is best for your specific needs – what you want to catch, where you fish, or how you plan to fish all factor into choosing the best line for you.
All of these lines are in the best rated and received a lot of praise from customers. Because of this, we know you will enjoy them too. We have all had fishing lines break on us, but remember, it does not need to happen. Source the best gear and increase your odds of landing more fish.
Max DesMarais
Max DesMarais is the founder of Hiking & Fishing. He has a passion for the outdoors and making outdoor education and adventure more accessible. Max is a published author for various outdoor and marketing websites. He is an experienced hiker, backpacker, fly fisherman, trail runner, and spends his free time in the outdoors. These adventures allow him to test gear, learn new skills, and experience new places so that he can educate others. You can read more about him here: hikingandfishing/about
FAQs
What color monofilament is best? ›
While the properties of fluorocarbon may make it less visible underneath the surface, clear monofilament works well in all situations. There is another clear option on the market, and it is typically called clear blue. The line is relatively clear underwater, but the blue tint makes it easier to see above water.
What monofilament has the least memory? ›If you want a line that has little to no memory, the KastKing SuperPower Braided line is your best bet. It never spiraled off the spool and was straight as an arrow even after weeks on the reel. With its classic monofilament construction, the Berkley Trilene XL also proved strong in this metric.
How do I choose the right fishing line? ›It should roughly match the weight of the species you are fishing for (e.g. use line in the 30-pound test for tuna in the 30-pound range). A typical line to cast for trout would be 4-pound test. Consider braided line of 30-pound test or more if you go after large game fish.
What type of fishing line casts the farthest? ›Braid proved to be the better choice compared to traditional monofilament line in terms of casting distance for both experiments. The first test with a heavier weight showed a 7% advantage to the braid. And the updated test with wet lines that were both newly spooled showed a whopping 30% advantage for the braid.
How often should monofilament line be changed? ›Mono and fluoro lines become brittle over time and weaken when they're exposed to saltwater and UV rays. I'd recommend changing it out at least once every 6 months to 1 year. And if you notice that it starts to coil, it's time to go ahead and replace it. For braided line, there's no reason to replace it within a year.
What lures to use with monofilament? ›Monofilament has more stretch than fluorocarbon or braid so it is ideal for running shallow-diving crankbaits through wood or rocks. When the crankbait hits an object the extra stretch in the line helps the lure kick off of the cover better.
What is the best all around fishing line weight? ›In freshwater, a 4-12 lb test is standard. For small trout and sunfish, a 4 lb test is okay. For bass or general freshwater fishing, 6-8 lb test is the norm. In saltwater, 12-15 il test is standard when using light tackle for smaller species, while 17-20 lb test allows you to target bigger fish.
Why does monofilament go bad? ›Sunlight and high temperatures can dramatically weaken these lines, and the most popular places to store fishing gear are often the most problematic.
Should I soak mono line before spooling? ›Always prior to spooling up with mono, leave your line submerged in a bucket of warm water. This will allow the water to soak into the line helping not only when you come to wind the line on but also allowing the line to bed down property on your spool.
Do you need to wet braid before spooling? ›Braid does not need soaking like you do with mono prior to spooling up. Thread your braid through the eye on the but section of the rod. Double check that your spool is as far forward as possible. Tie a slip loop knot in your braid.
What is the best fishing line for clear water? ›
In addition, fluorocarbon is the least visible line underwater, making it the best choice for clear water and line-shy fish. Fluorocarbon lines are much less stretchy than monofilaments, tend to sink slowly in the water column, and are impervious to damaging UV rays.
What are the 3 most popular types of fishing lines? ›What Are the Three Main Types of Fishing Line? Anglers have three main options when it comes to fishing lines. They include monofilament lines, braided lines, and fluorocarbon lines. Depending on their unique characteristics, they are most effective for different fishing methods, tactics, and conditions.
What line is best for shore fishing? ›Monofilament, or mono, is not only the best saltwater fishing line for most applications, it's also the most popular. Mono is thin, strong and subtle, water resistant and has good knot strength.
Does it matter what color your fishing line is? ›And does the color of fishing line matter? The truth is, no single color of braided line has ever proved to cause fish to bite more readily, but that shouldn't preclude fishermen from being mindful when selecting line.
What fishing line sinks fastest? ›Sink Rate—Fluoro sinks faster than mono, so it's not the best fishing line for topwater lures and small baits you want to suspend in the water column. On the flip side, fluoro is perfect for pinning bait close to bottom and getting more depth from weightless presentations.
What is the thinnest but strongest fishing line? ›Braid. Braid is very strong for its diameter, and it has virtually no stretch. Because it's the thinnest of the line types (by breaking strength) and very soft, it casts well. Because it's the most opaque and visible of the line types, many anglers choose mono or fluoro in clear water.
What is 20 lb braid mono equivalent to? ›For example, you can buy 20lb test Power Pro braided fishing line at a diameter of . 009” which is equivalent to 6lb mono at the same diameter.
Should you soak monofilament fishing line? ›Another option is to soak the line, particularly nylon monofilament, which relaxes when it absorbs water. Remove the spool from the reel and soak it in a bowl of warm water for a while. An hour should do it, but for best results you'll need to soak it in advance of fishing.
Should you use a leader with monofilament line? ›Mono has a much higher stretch capability than fluorocarbon, so if you need a shock leader or something to have a little give mono can be a great option.
What is the best way to store monofilament fishing line? ›You want to store fishing line in a cool, dry, relatively dark place.
Do I need backing for monofilament? ›
If you use normal monofilament, you can just fill your reel right up with it, but if you use braid, you need to put a base layer of monofilament on the reel beforehand. This is called mono backing, and it could save you from losing the biggest fish of your life.
What size needle do you use with monofilament thread? ›When sewing with monofilament thread, use a 60-70 weight needle because of the fineness of the thread. You'll want the needle to have a sharp point, such as a Microtex needle.
Should I tie my lure directly to my line? ›Lures will almost always run better and look more realistic when they are tied directly to the line or leader rather than having some clunky old swivel stuck to its nose.
What happens if you use too heavy fishing line? ›If you fish with line that's too heavy, you increase the risk of breaking your rod. Getting the right advice from your local tackle store will take the guesswork out of choosing a balanced outfit and it avoids using the wrong gear for the job.
Is thicker fishing line better? ›Thicker line decreases casting distance and accuracy
If you're not covering enough water, or placing your lure exactly where you want it to go, you'll miss out on fish that you might've otherwise been able to catch.
For example a line for catching tuna should have a 30lb test whereas the line for catching river trout will be much lighter at around a 4lb test. In general braided line 30lb plus is recommended for sports fishing because it makes reeling in much easier.
Do pros use monofilament? ›Most professional anglers today use very little monofilament line.
How do you keep a monofilament from twisting? ›All you have to do is think clockwise and counterclockwise. If you hold the rod in your hand and look down at the reel, you'll notice that when you turn the handle the spool rotates clockwise. Set the filler spool so the line comes off counterclockwise as you look at it. That's all there is to it.
How do I know if my monofilament is bad? ›- Check for abrasions. Most nicks or cuts are going to be in the first few yards of line. ...
- Check for UV damage. You don't need to worry about this so much for braided and fluorocarbon lines but keep a close watch for UV exposure on monofilament. ...
- Check for memory. ...
- Check your knot strength.
For many of the most popular bass presentations, fluorocarbon line (or a fluoro leader) is an excellent choice.
What line is best for distance casting? ›
Braided line in the 20- to 40-pound range is a good choice when fishing in open water with a clean bottom, and for extreme distance. For snag-infested waters, turn to monofilament no heavier than 25-pound test.
Which line is best for bass? ›- MONOFILAMENT. A classic line option for any fisherman, monofilament is an individual nylon fiber that is usually inexpensive and is easy to work with. ...
- BRAID. Braided fishing line is another trustworthy option for bass fishermen. ...
- FLUOROCARBON.
Braid. Braid is very strong for its diameter, and it has virtually no stretch. Because it's the thinnest of the line types (by breaking strength) and very soft, it casts well. Because it's the most opaque and visible of the line types, many anglers choose mono or fluoro in clear water.
What fishing line catches the most fish? ›1. Monofilament Line. Advantages : Monofilament is the most popular type of fishing line and comes in a great variety of strengths and colors. Mono is less expensive than other lines, stretches to absorb shocks, is abrasion resistant, and uniformly round in cross section, which helps keep it neat on the spool.
What color fishing line is best for bass? ›For spooky or pressured fish, the best fishing line for bass are clear, at least where the lure joins the line. When using opaque braids, think natural colors such as moss green if the lure is tied directly to the braid, or high visibility shades of yellow, green, or even pink if using a fluorocarbon leader.
What is the most versatile fishing line? ›Mono is the most versatile option and is likely the best choice for trolling. Fluorocarbon is similar to mono. It's abrasion-resistant and invisible but can be difficult to handle. Braid is sensitive and strong but not stretchy.
Does thinner line cast farther? ›Line size can be a drag
The short of it a heavier, thicker line will not cast as well as a thinner, lighter line will. So 10-pound line will throw a lure much farther than 20-pound line will. There is less drag on the line in both the guides and in the air.
A medium to slow action is prime for extended casting distance, pitching live baits, and working smaller lures and baits.
Is heavier line easier to cast? ›Having a heavier line will put more bend in the rod, making it easier to feel the loading. This, in turn, will make it easier to throw accurate casts. Loading with less line or long leaders - Another big benefit of overlining, for experts and beginners alike, is being able to load a rod with less fly line out.
What line is best for smallmouth bass? ›For most situations, 10 pound line will work well whether you are casting crankbaits or fishing with soft plastics. 8 to 12 pound test line is a good range. You usually don't have to go real heavy because you won't be fishing around as much heavy cover as you do when targeting largemouth bass.
What is the best fishing line for bluegill and bass? ›
Fishing Line: Monofilament or Fluorocarbon
Of the three major styles of fishing line, most anglers choose either monofilament or fluorocarbon when fishing for bluegill. While you can catch bluegill on pretty much any type of line, many anglers have been switching to fluorocarbon is recent years.