fishing line - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

jbm · 10-28-2010, 07:40 AM

To expand on bubble's information, while spectra is very good for its strength, ability to cut through kelp, resistance to line twist, small diameter and sensitivity, it is very visible under water and less abrasion resistant (think fish teeth) compared to other types of line. To keep the benefits of spectra but lose this downside, most people attach some flourocarbon fishing line to the terminal end of their spectra line. The exact length of this "topshot" line varies by personal preference, but it serves several purposes. One is to add some stretch to serve as a kind of shock absorber at the lure/bait end of the line, another is to make the line less visible to fish, and lastly to resist abrasion at the "business" end of your tackle.

There are 2 other downsides to spectra to be consider. It is very expensive compared to other types of fishing line. It also has very little stretch which makes it more likely to tangle on conventional reels (aka backlash or bird's nest).

If money is a major concern, I'd suggest you stick with high quality mono-filament line for the time being. At least until you get used to casting conventional gear and tying good knots.

10-28-2010, 07:40 AM	#5
jbm Member Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Escondido<->Carlsbad Posts: 81	To expand on bubble's information, while spectra is very good for its strength, ability to cut through kelp, resistance to line twist, small diameter and sensitivity, it is very visible under water and less abrasion resistant (think fish teeth) compared to other types of line. To keep the benefits of spectra but lose this downside, most people attach some flourocarbon fishing line to the terminal end of their spectra line. The exact length of this "topshot" line varies by personal preference, but it serves several purposes. One is to add some stretch to serve as a kind of shock absorber at the lure/bait end of the line, another is to make the line less visible to fish, and lastly to resist abrasion at the "business" end of your tackle. There are 2 other downsides to spectra to be consider. It is very expensive compared to other types of fishing line. It also has very little stretch which makes it more likely to tangle on conventional reels (aka backlash or bird's nest). If money is a major concern, I'd suggest you stick with high quality mono-filament line for the time being. At least until you get used to casting conventional gear and tying good knots.