Braided line is the most durable fishing line and can last you for years. T
he only downside of braid is that it tends to lose color.
However, companies changed the manufacturing process over the years and today the line does not lose its color as much as before.
If you want a durable line, braid is your top choice. It does not deteriorate like mono does.
You’ll have a thinner but stronger line, meaning that you’ll be able to cast farther and increase the yard capacity on your spool. With braid you can use a smaller reel, making the tackle lighter and more comfortable.
Braid can last from 4 up to 10 years, depending on what type of abuse you put it through.
It’s more expensive than mono, but you’ll definitely save money in the long run.
How often should braided line be changed?
Everything comes to an end, and fishing line makes no exception. No matter if you’re using monofilament, fluorocarbon or braided line: sooner or later you’ll have to change it. There’s no general rule: it mostly depends on the frequency of use and how well a line can resist over time.
Most anglers change braided line after 3-4 years of use, but its strength lasts for more than that. Unless your line is damaged or it has lost color, you can definitely keep it for more time.
A good indicator of when to replace it is the fraying along the line. To make it last longer, store it in a dark place and keep it away from sunlight when you’re not using it.
Does braided line go bad?
If you treat it properly, braid can last for years and has a longer life span than mono or fluoro. These two lines will eventually “go bad” after a few seasons in the water, even if you leave them in their packaging and don’t use them at all.
Despite being more resistant and not having such a short life, braid can also be damaged over time, especially if stored incorrectly. Be it braid, mono or fluoro, always protect your line from abrasion and keep it away from UV light and extreme temperatures.
How long is a fishing line good for?
Usually, monofilament has the shortest shelf life and can last you up to 2 to 3 years; fluorocarbon performs better, lasting from 7 to 10 years and braid can last up to 10 years. Keep in mind that this is just the shelf time and doesn’t mean that you should use the same line for ten years every time you go fishing. Heavy fishers should replace braid more often, even once a year.