Your guide to choosing the right fishing line

The right fishing line can make or break your next fishing adventure. Each type of line has its own strengths and uses, so knowing the differences can improve your technique — and your odds at success. Here's a quick guide to help you find the best line for your fishing needs.

Assist cord

Assist cords are specialised braided lines that connect the hook to the lure. They’re primarily used for jigging. This type of line is strong and flexible, designed to withstand sharp jerks and pulls without breaking. Assist cords are not used for casting or mainline fishing but are critical for securing larger, more aggressive fish with jigs.

Braided fishing line

Braided fishing lines are known for their strength and durability. Made from multiple strands of material braided together, this line is excellent for long-distance casting as it has no stretch, which provides exceptional sensitivity to detect fish bites. Braided lines are also thinner in diameter compared to monofilament lines, allowing for more line capacity on the reel. Being thinner, it also has the advantage of cutting through the water better than monofilament, keeping anglers “tight” to their lure more often which, in turn, improves the angler's response to a bite. 

These days, braided fishing line is far and away the most preferred line type for Australian anglers, covering anglers chasing whiting or trout on 4lb right through to trophy-size Barramundi on 80lb+.

Fishing wire

Fishing wire is typically made from stainless steel or other metals and is used in situations where an extremely strong, virtually unbreakable line is necessary. Fishing wire is best used in saltwater environments targeting toothy species such as Shark, Wahoo, and Spanish mackerel, where its strength and resistance to cutting are paramount. It’s also suitable for trolling and deep-sea fishing where durability under extreme conditions is required.

Fluorocarbon leader

Fluorocarbon leaders are used at the end of the fishing line and attached to the hook or lure. Fluorocarbon, has the same light reflective index as water essentially making it near on invisible underwater. As a result, fluorocarbon won’t spook fish, and is highly resistant to abrasion. It is denser and sinks faster than monofilament, making it a good choice for quick sinking lures.

Fluorocarbon leaders are perfect for clear-water fishing as the reduced visibility of the leader can help encourage a bite. Use them for fly fishing, spinning, or trolling in freshwater and saltwater.

Fluorocarbon mainline

Similar to the fluorocarbon leader but used as the main fishing line, this type has the same advantages of being nearly invisible underwater and abrasion-resistant. It's an excellent choice for clear water where fish might be line-shy. Although more expensive than monofilament, its durability and low visibility justify the cost.

Fluorocarbon mainline is helpful when you need a virtually invisible line with minimal stretch, such as in finesse fishing or targeting skittish fish in ultra-clear water. It's also great for fishing at greater depths due to its higher density and sinking properties.

Monofilament leader

Monofilament leaders are flexible and stretchable, which can be beneficial for buffering sudden, sharp pulls from fish, potentially preventing the line from snapping. This type of leader is easier to tie than fluorocarbon and is generally less expensive, making it a popular choice for many anglers.

Monofilament leaders can be used in both freshwater and saltwater settings where a bit of line stretch is beneficial. 

Monofilament line

Monofilament line is the most common type of fishing line, and is usually what most anglers would use at the start of the fishing journey. It’s a single strand of Nylon material, known for its versatility, stretch and affordability. Its stretchiness allows it to absorb fish strikes and resist breaking. It's an excellent all-around choice for both beginner and experienced anglers.

Monofilament line is well-suited for general-purpose fishing and is especially useful for beginners due to its forgiveness and ease of handling. 

Wind-on leader

Wind-on leaders are designed to be connected directly to the mainline without the need for heavy tackle. These leaders can be wound onto the reel through the guides, allowing for easier handling of the last few feet of line, especially useful when landing big fish. This setup reduces the need for additional heavy equipment and provides a smoother, safer way to bring large fish close to the boat or shore.

Wind-on leaders are especially useful in game fishing hotspots where Marlin and Tuna are prevalent. 

Each type of fishing line offers specific benefits depending on the fishing environment and the target species. By choosing the right line for your fishing conditions, you can secure the perfect catch on every adventure. Whether you're after sensitivity, low-visibility or brute strength, we’ve got you covered. 

FAQs about our fishing line range

What’s the difference between fishing line and fishing wire? 

Fishing line is made from flexible synthetic polymers such as nylon or fluorocarbon that offer different levels of stretch and visibility, making it suitable for most fishing situations. Fishing wire is typically made from sturdier metals like stainless steel and is used specifically for targeting large, toothy species that might cut through other lines. 

What are the advantages of using a wind-on leader instead of a regular leader?

Wind-on leaders allow for easier handling and safer management of the line, especially when bringing large fish close to the boat. Because wind-on leaders can be wound onto the reel through the rod guides, they eliminate the need for a crew to hand-line the last few feet, reducing the risk of break-offs near the boat. This makes it easier to release or gaff a large fish. This setup is particularly beneficial in sportfishing where large, powerful fish are being targeted. 

How do I prevent my fishing wire from kinking?

To prevent kinking in fishing wire, it's important to handle it properly. Use smooth, consistent winding methods when retrieving and spooling the wire onto the reel. Avoid sharp bends or twists when setting up and try not to overfill the reel, as this can also lead to kinks. When storing wire, reel it in loosely and evenly. Using a swivel can also help minimise twisting that leads to kinks. 

If the wire does get kinks, it's often best to cut out the damaged section as kinks can weaken the wire significantly.

Can a monofilament line be used for trolling?

Yes, a monofilament line can be used for trolling. Its stretchability helps absorb the shock of aggressive strikes, which is beneficial when targeting large fish. The stretch also allows for a more forgiving line action, which can help when fish shake their heads or make powerful runs. 

Monofilament is generally more buoyant than other lines, aiding in keeping the lures at the desired depth. It's also less expensive than other lines like fluorocarbon and braided lines, making it a cost-effective option for the long lengths required in trolling.

How do I choose the right thickness for a fluorocarbon leader when fishing in clear waters?

The right thickness depends on which species you’re targeting. Thinner leaders are less visible to fish, which is crucial in clear water where fish are more wary and can easily be spooked. However, the leader must also be thick enough to resist abrasion and handle the size and power of the fish. 

A good starting point is to match the leader's breaking strength to the expected weight of the fish. For smaller, more delicate fish, lighter and thinner leaders are preferable, whereas larger species will require a thicker, more durable leader.

Order fishing line today and get free shipping when you spend over $150. Shop now!