Welcome to the next instalment of our Hooked on Lines series, where we break down everything you need to know about fishing lines. In this edition, we’re unpacking the difference between main line and leader line, a crucial part of any fishing setup that affects everything from casting performance to landing fish safely.
Whether you’re just starting out or refining your rig for better results, understanding the roles of these two lines will help you fish smarter and more successfully.
What Is Main Line?
Let’s start with the basics. The main line is the line that fills the spool on your reel. It’s the working line that gets cast out into the water and plays a central role in how your entire setup performs. Because it makes up the bulk of your spool, the main line is typically a thinner diameter line, thin enough to allow for longer casts and greater line capacity, but still strong enough to handle the fight.
Main line comes in different types, including monofilament, braid, and fluorocarbon, and each type has its pros and cons depending on the fishing scenario. But no matter what line type you choose, the key is to invest in quality. As Marnus from Papgooi of Niks explains, cheaper lines often come with issues like excessive memory, which causes the line to coil or tangle more easily. This not only affects your casting but also increases the risk of break-offs during a fight.
For most of their general fishing needs, the Papgooi of Niks team prefers Double X High Abrasion line as a main line thanks to its low memory, low stretch, and overall durability.
What Is Leader Line?
Now let’s talk about leader line. This is a shorter, usually thicker piece of line that’s attached to the end of your main line. While it might only make up a metre or two of your full rig, it plays a critical role in your fishing success.
There are two main reasons to use a leader line:
-
Shock Absorption - During Casting
When you’re casting hard, especially when targeting long distances, a thicker leader line absorbs much of the stress and force that would otherwise be placed directly on the thinner main line. Without it, you risk snapping your line mid-cast. - Abrasion Resistance - Once you’ve hooked a fish, especially in snaggy or rocky waters, the thicker leader line protects against abrasion. It’s far more resistant to wear and tear, which means you’re more likely to keep your fish on the line all the way to the net.
Depending on the type of fishing, you might use a thicker mono leader, a braided leader, or even a coated braid. The important thing is to match your leader to the conditions and purpose, whether that’s cutting through snags, absorbing shock, or keeping your terminal tackle as discreet as possible.
Why Quality Matters
A key takeaway is the value of investing in high-quality line, both for your main spool and your leader setup. While cheaper lines may seem cost-effective at first, they often need to be replaced more frequently and come with frustrating performance issues like tangles and weak breaking points.
With a better-quality line, you benefit from:
- Longer lifespan
- Better casting distance
- Less memory and tangling
- Stronger hook sets and fish control
Your main line is your casting and fighting workhorse, while your leader line is your front-line defence against casting shock and abrasion. Both are essential components of a well-balanced fishing rig.
By understanding the role of each and choosing the right line for your style of fishing, you can cast further, fight harder, and land more fish - without the worry of line failure.
Impala Angling Club has been at the forefront of angling since the 1960s. The club and its members are family-oriented and passionate about growing the sport, particularly among the community’s youth. Impala Angling Club consists of various previous and current provincial and national anglers within the club. It’s the gateway to representing a province or a country.