Overview

To ensure that your line offers you the maximum performance it is essential that you look after it. In this section you will find advice about getting the very best from your line, including information about storage, simple tips about session care and advice regarding the various factors that can affect line performance.

Storage

All types of line are best stored at room temperature away from natural light but each responds differently to the conditions it is stored in. Monofilament lines absorb moisture from the atmosphere and the line becomes significantly softer and more flexible when stored in humid conditions. It is also not U. V. stable which means that the line will breakdown during prolonged periods of exposure to natural sunlight. Pure Fluorocarbon however is not affected by light and does not absorb water.

Line is ideally stored between 18 and 25°C. Normal ambient extremes of cold and heat do not significantly affect breaking strength until approaching the melting point of the material. Storage at temperatures outside this range does not have any measurable effects on a lines performance. However, a cold line is less flexible and a warmer line more supple.

Session Care

Keep a constant check on your line for damage or abrasion, particularly the last few feet before the hook. Line is open to many different adverse factors under the water which may not be apparent from the surface. Rocks, submerged branches, sand and even reeds and vegetation, all can cause damage, especially to a light line, as can a fish's mouth if the hook and bait are taken into the fish's throat. The only way to guard against this is by constant checking, ideally after every cast. Damaged sections should be replaced immediately.

When your line breaks due to snagging or overloading don't just trim off the broken end and re-tie your hook or hook length. Take off at least 6 feet of line. When monofilament breaks, the area around the break is stretched beyond the limits of its elasticity and is consequently weak and will break at a lower level than expected next time it is under tension.

Particles of sand, grit or dirt picked up on the line can also cause wear to both line and rings. At the end of your session wind your line back in through a moist cloth to remove any deposits.

Change your line according to the conditions and to the frequency of your fishing. As a general rule if you are fishing regularly most weekends then it is probably wise to change your mainline twice a year. Keep a regular check on your lines when winding in for any sign of nicks or abrasion and change immediately if this is the case.

Knots

A knot is the weakest point between you and the fish so ensuring that your knots are well tied is essential. Practice tying any new knots on off-cuts of line before using them in a real fishing situation. Never tie a knot without wetting it first, moisten the knot and draw it tight slowly. Different knots are best used in different situations with different materials so take time to find out the most effective uses for each knot.

Do's & Don'ts

It is vitally important that you follow certain rules to maintain your line at its optimum performance level. Check carefully the points below to ensure you get the best from your line.

Do

Use the correct knot for the purpose

Moisten all knots before tightening

Draw knots tight firmly and slowly

Fill fixed spool reels up to the rim

Check your guides for cracks and wear

Store your line away from natural light

Regularly check your line

Remove any damaged line immediately

Change your line regularly

Don't

Damage your line with knives or scissors

Over tighten crimps or shot

Trim knots too close

Store line in natural light

Store line in dry hot conditions

Put your line away dirty

Take chances, if in doubt change your line