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NEW LINE FOR A NEW FISHING SEASON
By Bob Jensen

A new open water fishing season is just around the corner. Every new fishing season should start off with fresh fishing line. Your line is the only thing keeping you attached to the fish that made the mistake of eating your lure. Fishing line is one place where you should not compromise. There are a lot of fishing lines available to anglers. Those lines all have different characteristics and are appropriate for different types of fishing. Following are some ideas on selecting a line that is best for your type of fishing.

For most discussions, there are two types of fishing line, the monofilaments and the superlines. Monofilament line has been around a long time, superlines have been used by anglers for less than ten years. In those ten years, the superlines have become very popular.

A good example of monofilament line is the Trilene family of lines. Monofilament line appeals to almost all anglers. It is very, very good for most fishing situations. Monofilament line has a little stretch, which serves as a shock absorber.

Some monofilaments are nearly invisible, others are very visible. Some anglers like to be able to see their line easily, especially when tying knots. Others prefer a line that they feel is hard for the fish to see.

For most fishing situations, Trilene XL is going to be a great choice. If you’re going to be fishing in heavy cover, you might prefer Trilene XT(XT for extra-tough) or Big Game line.

FireLine is an example of a superline. Superline looks and feels different than monofilament. It is extremely strong and has no stretch. 14/6 FireLine is a fourteen pound test line that is the same diameter as six pound test monofilament. This makes a superline an excellent choice for pulling crankbaits. The thin diameter allows the crankbait to go deeper than it would on monofilament of equal strength. However, remember to back off on the drag or go to a lighter action rod, as the no-stretch characteristic will allow fish to rip off easier if too much pressure is exerted.

Superlines have excellent sensitivity. This permits an angler to detect strikes and subtle changes in the bottom much easier, which can be a big advantage.

FireLine is one of the most popular superlines in the Midwest and nationwide. It generally costs a little more than monofilament, but it is very durable and, in some situations, will result in more fish.

Carefully consider the type of fishing you generally do, than match that to the proper fishing line. You will be more successful at catching fish, and you will also enjoy your fishing more with a line that performs effectively.

For more fish-catching information, visit fishingthemidwest.com

 

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