Are you confused about what fishing line to buy for your next fishing trip with your buddy or family member? We know it can be difficult to choose one in your nearest sports good shop and even more so if you are shopping online. Perhaps you have already made a decision, and now you are wondering what size fish can you catch on an 8lb line?
It’s natural to be wary because fishing would become a pain for you if the fishing line is not appropriate for the rod. If the line is too weak, it might break. If it’s too heavy, you won’t feel the fish bite. That is why it is only right for you to do a little digging before making the purchase. To help you make the right decision we are going to present some useful information in this article. We will go over the size of fish you can catch on an 8lb line. Read our fishing line strength guide if you want to know it too.
The Pound Test and the Fishing Line
To put it simply, pounds refer to the breaking strength of the fishing line. So, a line of 8lbs should not break until the pressure on it exceeds 8lbs. Now I know what you’re thinking. But no, this doesn’t mean that an 8lb line will only be able to catch fishes that are 8lbs.
You can catch fishes bigger than 8lbs on it. You only have to set the drag on the reel. When you do that, you will be able to pull the line without breaking it. The big fish you succeeded in baiting will easily get tired by pulling on the drag, and the rod will finish the job. However, it would be best if you took your time and not force things.
What is Drag?
Drag is actually a setting that only comes on the new and costly fishing lines. It automatically lets the line out for you depending on the force or pressure that is being applied. You will normally find it at the top of your fishing line. You can turn it clockwise to make it tight or anti-clockwise if you want to loosen up the line.
This will be very helpful when you use it for fishing a big one. Because instead of snapping, it will let out a little bit of the line until the surge is over. You can then start to reel normal again. With the drag on your reel, you can catch a heavier fish than what your line can handle.
What Size Fish Can You Catch On a 8lb Line?
There is no definite answer to this question. But one thing is for sure; you can catch fishes that are 8lbs or bigger than it. It depends on how you set up the drag and use the line. Some experts say that you can catch Sea Trout, Flounder, Walleye, Catfish, and Sea Bass with it.
Some have even caught Steelhead Trout as big as 22lbs with an 8lb line. Others have even snared a 28lb Halibut. The size of the fish you can catch on an 8lb line will change depending on your luck, skills, and the type of line you use.
Final Words
Fishing can be a fun sport if you know what pound fishing line to use. Otherwise, you will just be waiting the whole day by the brink of your lake uselessly. When it comes to what size of fish you catch on an 8lb line, our answer is: just about anything. If you manage your drag well and use the poll correctly, you can catch some sizeable fishes.
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