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 taking a closer look at braided line - its unique properties, advantages, and when to use it for maximum success. Whether you’re bass fishing, specimen fishing, or need a long-distance setup, understanding braid can give you an edge on the water.
Braided fishing line, commonly referred to as braid, is a specialised line choice with unique properties that make it an excellent option for various fishing techniques. Unlike monofilament or fluorocarbon lines, braid is created by twisting multiple fibres together, forming a strong, durable, and ultra-thin fishing line. This article explores the different types of braided lines, their applications, and why they are favoured in specific fishing scenarios.
Types of Braided Line
Braided lines come in different configurations, typically categorised by the number of strands woven together. The most common options include:
- Four-strand braid – Coarser and rougher to the touch, offering extra durability.
- Eight-strand braid – Smoother and more refined, providing better handling and castability.
- Twelve-strand braid – Less common but even smoother, designed for specific fishing applications.
Many anglers prefer an eight-strand braid due to its smooth texture, making it more comfortable to handle and cast. In contrast, a four-strand braid is more rugged and can be slightly abrasive when handled.
Why Use Braided Line?
Braided line is highly valued for its distinct advantages over traditional fishing lines. Here’s why many anglers choose braid:
1. Zero Stretch for Direct Contact
One of the stand out features of braid is its lack of stretch. Unlike monofilament, which has elasticity, braid provides a direct connection between the angler and the lure. This results in superior sensitivity, allowing you to feel every bump, rock, or movement underwater. When a fish strikes, the immediate feedback helps set the hook with precision.
2. Thinner Diameter for Better Performance
Braid has a significantly smaller diameter compared to monofilament of the same strength. For example, a 10lb braid typically has a diameter of 0.12mm, whereas a 10lb monofilament measures around 0.25mm. This difference allows for:
- Longer casting distances
- Increased spool capacity
- Better line control in deep or open water
3. Superior Casting Distance
Due to its thin diameter and smooth texture, braid casts further than most other lines. This makes it a popular choice for anglers who need to cover large areas, such as those fishing for bass or targeting species at long distances.
Applications of Braided Line
Braid is used in multiple fishing styles, each benefiting from its unique properties:
Bass Fishing
Bass anglers favour braid because of its high sensitivity and long-casting abilities. The direct contact allows for finesse fishing, where detecting subtle bites is crucial. Additionally, braid’s strength helps when fishing in heavy cover, such as weeds or submerged structures, preventing break-offs.
Specimen Fishing
In specimen fishing, braid is used for reaching extreme distances. Because of its thin diameter, anglers can spool significantly more line, sometimes up to a kilometre, on their reels. This allows for fishing in hard-to-reach areas where big fish often lurk. Another advantage is the near-instant bite indication, reducing missed opportunities caused by the stretch of monofilament lines.
Hair Rigs in Specimen Fishing
Braided line is also ideal for tying hair rigs, where bait is suspended beneath the hook. Its supple nature ensures a natural presentation, increasing the chances of a successful hook-up. Some variations of braided line used in specimen fishing include:
- Coated braid – Offers extra abrasion resistance
- Uncoated braid – Provides maximum flexibility
- Sinking braid – Designed to settle on the lakebed, minimising visibility to fish
Considerations for Bank Angling and Tournament Rules
While braid is highly effective, certain tournament rules restrict its use. Under the South African Freshwater Bank Angling Federation (SAFBAF) regulations, braid is not permitted in bank angling competitions. However, it can still be used in feeder fishing, where it is allowed for making leaders.
For spomming and marker floating in specimen fishing, braid is commonly used due to its long casting capability and low stretch. It enhances the performance of rods by reducing energy loss during the cast, making it easier to reach distant feeding zones.
Braided Line’s Floating Property
One key characteristic of braid is its buoyancy. Unlike fluorocarbon, which sinks, braid tends to float unless specifically designed to be heavier. When fishing on the bottom, anglers may need to use additional weight to pin it down. However, for topwater techniques, the floating nature of braid can be an advantage.
Braided line is a game-changer for many fishing styles, offering unmatched strength, sensitivity, and casting distance. Whether you’re bass fishing, targeting specimen fish, or using braid for specialised rigging techniques, understanding its properties will help you maximise your success on the water. Its thin diameter, low stretch, and durability make it a versatile choice—but always check tournament regulations before use. For anglers looking to up their game, investing in quality braid can make all the difference in the pursuit of the perfect catch.
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.