If you’re new to fishing, setting yourself up with the right gear is essential for your success. There are so many different types of fishing gear, and some of what you’ll need depends on the type of fishing you intend on doing. That said, there are some types of fishing gear that you’ll need no matter what, like fishing line. After all, you can’t really catch a fish without a line.
Braid is generally considered to be stronger than monofilament because it has a higher tensile strength. This means that it can handle more weight and pressure before breaking. Monofilament, on the other hand, is known for its abrasion resistance, which is important for fishing in areas with heavy vegetation or structure. Additionally, Monofilament has low visibility underwater making it a better choice for stealthy fishing situations.
There are three main types of fishing lines: monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braided.
There are distinct differences between each one, but today, we’re going to focus on just two: monofilament and braided; more specifically, we’re going to focus on which type is stronger, though we’ll also touch on some other key differences between each type. Without further ado, let’s jump in and investigate.
What is a Monofilament Fishing Line?
Monofilament fishing line, often simply referred to as “mono”, is the most basic of the three different types of fishing lines.
It’s a single strand that’s made of nylon material.
It’s made by melting polymers, blending them, and then extruding the mixture through small holes, which creates strands of fishing lines.
Monofilament fishing line is available in a variety of different diameters that have different tensile strengths (referred to as “tests).
It can also be made in different colors, like clear, white, blue, red, green, and even fluorescent.
What is a Braided Fishing Line?
Braided fishing lines were one of the first types of fishing lines created, and it’s still widely used today.
The first renditions of braided fishing lines were comprised of natural fibers, like cotton and linen; however, today, they are made of braided or woven fibers of various types of synthetic materials, such as Spectra, micro-dyneema, and Dacron.
These materials are made into a strand of line, which are then braided together.
The term “carrier” if often used to describe the number of strands that are braided together to create the fishing line.
For instance, a 6-carrier line is made of 6 strands that are braided together.
Like monofilament fishing lines, there are several different diameters of braided fishing lines available.
Additionally, braided lines are also available in different colors.
Which is Stronger: Mono or Braided Fishing Line?
Technically speaking, a braided fishing line is stronger than a monofilament fishing line.
That’s because a braided line is comprised of several different strands of synthetic material that have been braided together, creating a solid line.
The fact that it contains multiple lines, and that these lines are braided together, gives the braided fishing line a higher degree of strength.
In terms of strength here, we are referring not only to the weight that the fishing line can support but to its abrasion resistance, as well.
With the above said, however, it is important to note that when you’re comparing the strength of the two types of fishing lines, diameter makes matters.
For example, a monofilament that measures 0.11 inches in diameter is stronger than 0.005 inches in diameter.
That’s because a 0.11-inch diameter mono fishing line can support up to 10 pounds, while a 0.005-inch diameter braided fishing line can support up to 6 pounds.
As you can see, if strength is a priority and you’re trying to determine whether you should go with a monofilament fishing line or braided fishing line, you really need to compare the diameter of each type.
Whichever you choose, it’s important to go with a diameter that will be able to support the average weight of the fish you are targeting.
Pros and Cons of Mono and Braided Fishing Line: A Comparison
Strength isn’t the only factor that you should take into consideration when you’re trying to decide which type of fishing line you should choose.
Other key factors that you’ll want to consider include the stretch, the ease of use, and the price tags.
Below, you’ll find a comparison of the pros and cons of mono and braided fishing line.
Benefits of Mono Fishing Line
- Stretch. Monofilament lines have a good degree of stretch.
- Forgiveness. Mono lines are also quite forgiving, which is particularly beneficial for novice anglers; however, experienced fishermen can also benefit from this feature.
- Diameter. Mono fishing line is available in a wide range of diameters. The higher the diameter, the more weight the line can support.
- Visibility. Monofilament line has a low-degree of visibility. This is a great feature if you’re targeting skittish fish. Additionally, mono lines also come in an assortment of colors, and while these colors may be highly visible on dry line, in the water, they’re practically invisible.
- Knots. Another key benefit of mono is that you can easily make various types of knots in this type of line.
- Cost. Monofilament fishing line is the more affordable than braided fishing line.
Cons of Mono Fishing Line
- Memory. The high degree of memory can make the mono fishing line frustrating to use.
- Absorption. Mono lines absorb water, and when saturated, the structure changes, which can change how it works.
- UV rays. Mono lines are highly sensitive to the sun’s UV rays.
Pros of Braided Fishing Line
- Durability. Braided lines are more durable than mono in that they’re more abrasion-resistant.
- Sensitivity. Braided lines lack elasticity, which makes them highly sensitive, and this increased sensitivity can help to lure fish; plus, it gives you more control over your lures.
- Buoyancy. Due to the buoyancy, braided lines float on water, which is ideal for topwater lures.
- Casting. Braided lines can be cast further than mono fishing lines. The thinner the diameter, the further it will cast.
- No memory. Because there is no memory, you don’t have to worry about them retaining the shape of the spool or reel.
Cons of Braided Lines
- Lack of elasticity. While the lack of elasticity is good for sensitivity, it puts a lot of stress on knots between lures or swivels.
- Knots. You can’t create as many knots in braided fishing line as you can in mono fishing line.
- Stress. Braided lines can put stress on your rod and reel, which can cause wear and tear and faster degradation.
- Cost. Braided fishing lines are more expensive than mono lines.
READ: Can Fish See Braided Line?
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether braid or monofilament is stronger depends on the specific situation and intended use. Braid has a higher tensile strength, making it better for heavy duty fishing and pulling in large fish.
Monofilament, on the other hand, has better abrasion resistance and is less visible underwater, making it more suitable for finesse fishing and stealthy presentations.
Both types of fishing line have their unique advantages and disadvantages; it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific conditions of the fishing environment.
It’s important to evaluate the specific needs and priorities for the fishing trip and choose the line accordingly.
Tight lines, bend rods and may all your fishes come true!