As a seasoned angler, you would know that the quality of fishing lines plays an important role in fishing success, especially when using braided lines. Braided lines are renowned for their strength, sensitivity, durability, and thin diameter, making them ideal for catching heavy and stubborn fish. However, like any other fishing line, they are prone to wear and tear, and as such, anglers need to ask themselves, “?”
Braid fishing lines are made using a combination of synthetic materials such as Spectra or Dyneema. These materials create a strong and abrasive-resistant fishing line that can withstand tough conditions, making them perfect for saltwater and freshwater fishing. However, braid fishing lines are also more prone to abrasion damage, nicks, cuts, and sun damage compared to monofilament or fluorocarbon lines.
So, when should you change your braided fishing line? Well, there is no definite answer to this question since there are various factors to consider. Here are the most important factors to consider when deciding whether to change your braid fishing line.
Usage Frequency
The more you fish, the more your braided line will wear out. If you fish every day or multiple times a week, your line will deteriorate faster than if you only fished occasionally. You should inspect your fishing line after every use and look for visible signs of wear and tear. It’s essential to check the section of the line near the lure or hook as it’s more likely to get damaged due to rocks or debris.
Fish Species
The type of fish species you are targeting can also affect your braided fishing line. Some fish species have stronger jaws or teeth, and they can easily fray, nick, or cut your fishing line as they struggle to escape. For instance, if you are fishing for pike or musky, which have sharp teeth, your fishing line will wear out quicker than when targeting smaller fish species.
Fishing Condition
Fishing conditions can also affect your braided fishing line. If you frequently fish in rocky, weedy, or sandy bottoms or in areas with numerous snags, your line will show more signs of wear and tear than if you fish in open water. Fishing in rough or windy weather can also affect your line, as it rubs against your rod guide when casting.
General Wear and Tear
Although braided fishing lines are stronger than monofilament or fluorocarbon lines, they still wear out naturally due to prolonged exposure to UV rays, salt, and sweat. Thus, you will need to replace your braided fishing line after a certain period of time, even if you don’t fish often.
The frequency of changing your braid fishing line depends on several factors. As a rule of thumb, you should replace your line when you notice signs of wear and tear such as fraying, nicks, or cuts. You should also consider replacing your line if it has been exposed to harsh conditions or has been in use for a prolonged period. Finally, to get the most out of your braided fishing line, you should store it correctly and rinse it with clean water after every trip.