Different fishing applications demand different lines. Braid fishing line is not produced the same and one of the most important aspects to consider when buying braid is the way it’s constructed, that is defined by the number of strands that make up the braid.
Strands (also called carriers) are made up of polyethylene fibre.
Using more strands creates a rounder and smoother braid that it’s quieter when being wound through the guides.
How is braided line made?
Braid is made from microfibers of polyethylene used to form fiber bundles. Each bundle, or carrier, is then braided together to construct your line. Their special design makes a very strong, tough line that is very abrasion resistant. Braided line can have 4, 6 or 8 bundles of fiber and the greater the number, the more compact the line will be.
4 strand line vs 8 strand line
Each design has its own benefits. An 8-strand line allows you to cast further. However, a 4-strand line has its own advantages too, especially if you are fishing through heavy weeds or kelp. A four-carrier line will provide maximum strength and abrasion resistance. With a four-strand line fishermen can cut their way out of kelp and target larger bass, for instance.
Since four-strand line is easier to manufacture, the price will also be cheaper. Eight-carrier line is more sensitive during the retrieve and makes less noise and less friction when used. It is the best choice for cast-and-retrieve situations due to its smoothness and superior handling.
When surf-casting, tossing surface iron or fishing live bait you may want to choose a smoother-casting line such as the eight-strand braids. Eight-carrier line is also recommended for inshore application, such as fishing with jerkbaits or soft-plastic fishing with a fluorocarbon leader.
But four-carrier line also has advantages in some conditions, for instance for bottomfishing, and all those situations where you have heavy grass, cover or mats.
What is the best braided line on the market?
With dozens of options on the market, how to choose the best braid? The answer to this question is that it depends on the type of fishing that you do: different lines are tailored on specific conditions.
Braid comes with different coatings and designs, making it suitable for all applications. Before buying, think about how you’ll be using your line. Look for a reputable brand and choose a line that best suits your preferences.