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Untangling questions about fishing lines
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Published: December 12, 2008
Choosing the right fishing line is often complex and confusing. Line comes in blister packages, boxes and in bulk amounts on small, medium and large spools. It is available in various pound test ratings, colors, diameters, materials and prices.
This column will address monofilament, the most widely used line for both bait casting and spinning reels. As a rule, the lighter the pound test rating, the smaller the diameter of the line. A line of small diameter allows for more reel capacity, longer casts, and less visibility in the water. Light line is also less water resistant when trolling or when playing a fish. Line heavier than fourteen pound test is usually used on a bait casting or other revolving spool reel. Heavy line is used to catch large fish. The higher the pound test rating, the less likely the line will break.
Recommended line size and capacity is printed on the spool of most spinning reels, on the reel box, or in the instruction manual. The fishing reel section of most tackle catalogs also contains printed instructions and information.
Monofilament line comes in a multitude of colors. The best color for a particular fishing situation is debatable. Some suggest that red is preferred, since it is the first color to disappear as it falls though the water column. Others argue that green, blue, gold, or shades of gray are less obvious to fish. When in doubt, use clear line and experiment with colors.
Generally speaking, a limp or soft line is easier to cast, but is less resistant to abrasion. It also has a tendency to stretch, which makes it difficult to set the hook. Stiff line can withstand more abuse, but it tends to have more memory. Line with a great deal of memory will retain the coil from being stored on the spool. A tightly coiled line is harder to control and makes knot tying difficult.
Line characteristics vary by manufacturer and type. Once again, experiment until you find the one that fits your fishing situation. Price varies dramatically. Unless you know exactly what you want, purchase a medium priced line in the size, color and number of yards needed.
Still, confused? Take your reel to a tackle shop. A sales associate will help determine your needs and will re-spool your reel for a reasonable charge. Bulk line usually sells for two to five cents per yard, depending on the pound test and quality.
Hot spot of the week
The Hot Spot of the week is Mountain Creek. Stripers have moved to the shallower sections of the back creeks where baitfish are plentiful. When seabirds are noticed pecking the surface, cast of troll shallow running baits beneath them. Bass fishing is good to excellent, depending on the day. Lots of small spotted bass are around brush and drop offs in water to 35 feet. The lake level is down 3.3 feet from full pond and the water surface temperature is in the 50s.
Tips from Gus!
Monofilament line should be replaced when it becomes opaque, when it shows signs of wear, or if the reel spool is no longer filled to capacity. Re-spooling is easy. Place the new spool in a bucket of water, run the line through the rod guides, attach it to the spool and begin reeling. The friction generated by the spinning spool will provide enough resistance to allow the line to fill the reel spool tightly without twisting.
Upcoming Events:
A free holiday seminar about "Frequently Asked Questions When Fishing for Lake Norman's Bass, Stripers, and Catfish" is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 11, from 6:30-8 p.m. at Gander Mountain in Mooresville. The discussion will be conducted by Lake Norman Fishing Guide Capt. Gus Gustafson and Jake Bussollini, author of "Freshwater Fighters." Bring your fishing and boating questions to this free 90-minute Q&A session. For additional information, call 704-658-0822.
Capt. Gus Gustafson is licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard and is a Professional Sport Fishing Guide on Lake Norman. Visit his Web site at www.FishingWithGus.com or call 704-617-6812.
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