Choosing the right fishing line size is part of your success. However, you must deal with many options until you can decide on the most effective solution. So what pound line for bass fishing is the best?
If you choose a monofilament or fluorocarbon line, the 8 to 12-pound test will be the best. But if you prefer the braided line, go for the 30 to 50-pound test.
We will give you more details regarding the fishing size line. Let’s scroll down and learn which option can maximize your success rate!
What Is Pound Test Line For Bass Fishing?
The pound test, or line test, describes the strength of a fishing line measured in pounds. It refers to the maximum weight that the line can bear before breaking.
For instance, if you see a 20-pound test label on your fishing line, it can handle up to 20 pounds before breaking.
We have a comprehensive explanation of the fishing line weight right here. So check it first to have a solid understanding of the topic. Then, you can jump into the details of bass fishing.
Types Of Lines For Bass Fishing
Using the right line type makes the difference between a new angler and a seasoned one. There are four options to consider.
Monofilament
The monofilament line is one of the most versatile and popular. It can remain invisible even in clear water. Its strength for heavy fishing applications, like topwater fishing, will also impress you.
Another benefit of using the mono line is that it can stretch. In this case, the fishing line acts as a shock absorber to fight against aggressive strikes.
However, the stretchy may sometimes limit your sensitivity. For example, you will find it hard to feel when your bait has reached the bottom. Detecting slight hits from your prey will also be more difficult.
If you want to use the mono line, consider its thickness carefully. Going for a high pound test, like 20 pounds, will cause poor castability.
Besides, do not use the mono line as the main line. Instead, it works better as a leader to support reaction baits and some rigs.
Pros:
- The mono line is the cheapest option available.
- It can stay nearly invisible underwater.
- The line stretches to absorb the shock when you set your hook.
Cons:
- Sometimes, you can’t detect the bites because your mono line stretches too much.
- Setting the hook can be tricky due to the stretchy line.
Fluorocarbon
Like the mono line, the fluorocarbon line is also invisible in the water. In fact, the light-refracting feature enables it to reflect light rather than absorb it.
As a result, even when the water is clear, fish can’t see the line, no matter if they hide in lily pads or shallow covers.
Moreover, this line isn’t stretchy. Hence, you can feel the slightest vibration, from the tiny nibbles to the aggressive bites from your prey. This feature makes it popular in finesse fishing, especially when catching big bass in highly pressured water.
What’s more, the fluoro line is abrasion-resistant and robust. Thus, it performs well in sharp rocks, clam beds, and other regions where the terrain may cut your fishing line.
However, this line has drawbacks, too. Anglers don’t often use it as the main line because they can’t spool and unspool it from their fishing reel.
In addition, the fluoro line sinks quickly. So if you plan a topwater bass fishing trip, do not choose this option.
Instead, the fluoro line is better for popping, drop-shotting, and bottom fishing techniques. Since it’s not stretchy, you can get a strong hook on the bass.
Pros:
- You can easily detect even tiny vibrations in the line.
- This line remains invisible even in clear water.
- Its durability and abrasion resistance are impressive.
- You can use it with crankbaits or jigs because the line will sink to the bottom smoothly.
Cons:
- You may have a hard time spooling and unspooling your fishing line.
- It’s more expensive than other options.
Braid
The braided fishing line has just become popular among anglers recently. Because it’s lightweight and strong, you can use it for longer casts and be ready to reel in big fish, even from heavy cover.
The braided fishing line isn’t stretchy. Thus, you can feel the vibration, making it an excellent option for sensitive regions.
Furthermore, you can use the braided fishing line for multiple purposes and fishing styles. It also goes well with different lure types, such as crankbaits, cover frogs, and buzzbaits.
Unfortunately, the line is easy to see in the water. It doesn’t matter when fishing in stained water. Yet, this line won’t be a good idea if you are catching bass in clear water.
As a result, if you work in areas with clear water, only use the braided line for the mainline. But switching to invisible leaders is a better solution.
Pros:
- The braided line is lightweight and durable, making it suitable for long casts and big fish.
- Its versatility allows you to use it in multiple cases.
- The low stretch helps you connect with your prey quickly.
Cons:
- Fish can see your fishing line easily in the water.
- Since it doesn’t stretch much, it may rip your hook out of the fish.
Light wire line
Although the light wire line is not as common as the other three options, you may like it for some reason.
Many anglers complain that using the wire line for bass fishing is cumbersome and heavy. However, the whole game will change if you pair it with the right gear.
For example, do not grab an old reel and rod and spool them up with the wire. Instead, choose a rod with a flexible, soft tip with enough backbone to create a tube umbrella with a few fish attached.
This setup is lightweight. As a result, you can easily get it out once a bass jumps onto your hook.
When using the wire line, be careful to prevent the wire from kinking. Then, the lightweight setup can remove many troublesome aspects of the fishing wire.
Pros:
- The light wire line setup is lightweight.
- You have many choices in terms of accessories when setting it up.
Cons:
- You have to choose the right gear for your setup.
Best Line Size For Every Technique
The proper line size for your bass fishing depends on the type of line and the fishing technique you choose. Here are your options:
| Technique | Monofilament | Fluorocarbon | Braid | Wire/Nylon Line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soft plastics | 8-10 pound | 8-10 pound | 10-20 pound | 30-50 pound |
| Jigs, Texas, and Carolina rigs | 15-20 pound | 15-25 pound | 40-50 pound | 30-50 pound |
| Chatterbaits and Spinnerbaits | 15-20 pound | 15-20 pound | 40-50 pound | 30-50 pound |
| Crankbaits | 12-20 pound | 12-15 pound | 30-40 pound | 30-50 pound |
| Swimbaits | 20-25 pound | 20-25 pound | >50 pound | 30-50 pound |
| Topwater | 12-20 pound | Not recommended | 30-40 pound | 30-50 pound |
| Frogs and Buzzbaits | No leader | Not recommended | 30-50 pound (no leader) | 30-50 pound |
| Trolling | 8-12 pound | 8-12 pound | 30-50 pound | 30-50 pound |
| Fly fishing | 8-12 pound | 10-20 pound | 30-50 pound | 30-50 pound |
If you choose a mono or fluoro line, stick to the 8 to 20-pound test in most cases. And if you opt for two other options, the line size should be 30 to 50 pounds.
You can use the mono line as the leader or the mainline. It always comes into play when you need some stretch.
Remember to have a braid or mono backing when using the wire or nylon line. Also, consider the depths you fish to select the correct size.
Another tip to bear in mind is to choose a stiff-weight leader for topwater baits. The leader then can prevent the leader from sliding over the line, which often happens with trebles.
Water clarity also plays a vital role in choosing the line size. For example, if you fish in clear water, opt for fluoro leaders or downsize your line. Then, fish can’t see them well.
In contrast, upsize your line when you fish in weeds or heavy structures. It would be best to use the heaviest line in your tackle box so you can pull the bass easier.
Spinning Reels Vs. Baitcasting Reels
The reel and rod setup also affects your decision on the line size. There are two popular options in this case: spinning and baitcasting reels.
Spinning reels are more suitable for lightweight lines. So, you can use a fluoro or mono line of at least 12-pound test for your bass fishing.
Meanwhile, go for a heavier line size if you fish with a braided fishing line. A line of 20-pound tests can work well with the spinning gear.
See also: Should I use braided line on my spinning reel
On the other hand, baitcasting reels can handle heavier lines. As a result, you may want to use them for the biggest baits and longer casts.
The best line size for baitcasting reels can be:
- 15 to 25-pound for fluoro and mono lines
- 30 to 65-pound for braided lines
Please note that you shouldn’t use a braided line of under 30-pound test. Otherwise, its narrow diameter may cut into the bind and spool.
Does Line Color Matter For Bass Fishing?
Yes. The line color matters in clear water. If the bass notices the line, they will suspect your bait and may skip it.
As a result, if you fish in clear water, use a clear mono or fluoro line as the leader. And in stained water, a green braided line can blend well.
Otherwise, if you fish among weed beds and other kinds of structures, the line color doesn’t affect your success.
In addition, bass can hardly detect cool color shades, like blue, in the water. Meanwhile, warm shades, like orange and red, are visible to them. But the most effective solution is to use translucent colors as they can blend well.
Conclusion
The pound test hints at how much weight your fishing line can hold before breaking. Then, you can consider your fishing techniques, bait, and type of line to opt for the ideal line size.
Hopefully, you will find this article helpful. If you need any extra tips for choosing your fishing line, please feel free to ask.
Thank you for reading!
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Born in Lakeland, Florida, Daniel has started fishing since he was just a tiny little kid. His father was a real good fisherman, as he taught Daniel tricks and tips to catch the fish better. From those childhood memories, Daniel has built up his love for fishing. Until now, he has been participating in several bass tournaments and currently serves as the Chief Editor of fishingonsunday.com to share his precious knowledge and experiences with many more people.
