Fishing lines are a crucial item designed for angling. Using wrong lines will turn your fishing hours into failure. One should consider several factors while buying them, especially longevity. Their lifespan relies on the build materials, design, strength, use cases, etc. Unfortunately, no rule can determine it. The packaging of the fishing line doesn’t usually come with an expiration date. However, we can predict the answer of “how long does fishing line last?” based on their type. Let’s jump in:
Everything an Angler Needs to Know About the Fishing Line’s Durability
Monofilament
Mono lines contain only a single strand of synthetic fiber, which consists of nylon. Their main plus points are cheap rate, effortless usages, smooth casting, etc. They are very stretchy to endure superior shock until reaching the breaking point. Each operates fine along with the surface baits but miserable with the bottom ones. Weakness is the major drawback of using a mono line. It is quite sensitive to heat as well as light exposure. These things degrade mono lines quickly.
One purchase does not usually last more than 2 to 3 years. Then, you have to discard it despite doing regular maintenance. If you prefer light fishing weekly, replace it once every 1 or 1.5 years. They are not for heavy angling; you may have to change up to 4 times annually. Overall, beginners can go for them as they are very easy to use. But the experts do not find them appropriate for heavier catches because bringing additional lines is compulsory to enjoy hassle-free fishing.
Fluorocarbon
Just like the monofilament lines, fluorocarbons carry only a single strand. In place of nylon, they use a much denser substance named polyvinylidene fluoride. One reason for their high rate is an outstanding performance. They are almost invisible underwater. Even the cleverest fish can’t detect them easily. Besides, they are abrasion resistant and stretchy under high pressure. So, there will be less loss of accuracy under high stress. Try to use them only with jigs, drop shots, and more bottom fishing strategies because they sink quickly.
Many users complain about its tangling issues and heavy weight, though. But their durability never fails to impress us. One fluorocarbon model generally serves at least three times longer compared to its monofilament counterparts. UV rays cannot damage their shape and effectiveness at all. Catching fish can be efficient even after three years of light fishing. Anglers who opt for medium fishing get a new one or two times per year. If you are interested in regular heavy fishing, change at least two times annually.
Braided
In braided units, multiple polyethylenes strands are twisted to develop high strength. As we can assume, they can tolerate more load than other types. Although the strand number varies from four to sixteen, all versions can deal with moderate to high abrasion. Anglers experience completely precious casting because of the no stretching feature. This line limits the shock strength of these lines. The braided line is perfect for deep dropping and jigging in less visible water. It also performs fine in areas with heavy vegetation. Just make sure to pair it with strong gear.
No wonder it cost lots of bucks. However, you will save some money in the long run. Even after tolerating pressure from continuous heavy fishing, they will last for a year or more. Moderate fishing lovers keep using them for up to two to three years. A weekend angler does not have to worry about replacement for at least 3.5 years. In short, they are the most durable lines of all. Unlike the previous two kinds, their shelf life extends above ten years.
Note that we mentioned only the average cases. Many brand new braid lines can fail at the first trial for a small defect. Hence, do not jump to a conclusion yet. Test the line when there has been a year gap from the previous and upcoming fishing trip. Tie its one side to a more robust item than your fishing line’s weight capacity. Begin pulling about a 40 feet long line. Do not apply more pressure than its tolerance limit. If it breaks before hitting the limit, it is not perfect anymore. Else, you can use it for regular activities. Do not hurt yourself in this test, and take precautions. Whenever you are not sure of its efficiency, you can do this test.
Maintenance
The following activities can extend the longevity of your favorite line:
- Always check the line properly before heading to your fishing destination. A tiny nick can become larger over time. Then, it will break the line in the middle of your fishing session. Also, check every time before a new cast. Encountering a new scratch or hole indicates the presence of sharp objects underwater. Therefore, change the spot. Trim off the damaged part.
- Avoid exposing lines under the sun, UV rays, and high temperature, especially the monofilament lines. They will be damaged even before the first use.
- Oil your line and reel regularly. It not only ensures smooth operation but also saves them from the impacts of salty water.
- Clean your line after throwing it in areas with mud, dense vegetation, weed, etc. Do not let these impurities build up on the line.
- Where you are keeping the gear also matters a lot. A monofilament line is much safer in a garage compared to an AC room. On the other hand, the basement is the proper place to store the lines in cold months. Put them in a dry and dark place regardless of the storage. In this way, you can keep the sensitive lines safe from temperature and humidity changes.
- Every line expires after a time. It does not matter whether you used it or haven’t brought it out from the packaging. Do not keep it unused for a long time. Buy only the needed quantity unless you fish every single day or week.
- Be careful when you are tying the knots and strapping the baits. Moisten your line just before tightening. Pull the ends slowly to protect lines from friction. Do not make them too light or too loose.
