Line Care - Wise words from the experts at Ultima

It is vitally important that you should keep a constant order to get the best from your monofilament and avoid disappointment. Check carefully the points below to ensure you get the best from your line.

Know Your Line

Keep a constant check on your line for damage or abrasion, particularly the last few feet before the hook. Line is open to many different adverse factors under the water which may not be apparent from the surface. Rocks, submerged branches, sand and even reeds and vegetation, all can damage line particularly light line, as can a fish's mouth if the hook and bait are taken into the fish's throat or stomach. The only way to guard against this is by constant checking, ideally every three to four casts. Damaged sections should be replaced immediately.

Break-Offs

When any line breaks due to snagging or overloading don't just trim off the broken end and re-tie your hook or hook length. Take off at least 6 feet of line. When monofilament snaps, the area around the break is stretched beyond the limits of its elasticity and is consequently weak and will break at a lower level than expected.

Sunlight

Line should always be stored out of daylight. Filled reels should be kept in cases and spare spools of line should be kept in bags.

Storage

Line is best preserved at room temperature. A cold garage or hot cupboard or green house can weaken any line. Store line away from chemicals and chemical vapour which can affect line quality. A good humidity level keep your line soft and supple with improved bedding down on the reel as well as a reduced tendency to coil.

Abrasion

Abrasion is caused by many factors, such as worn guides or contact with an object, or unseen deposits on your line itself. Always check you rod rings for wear, a damaged ring can lessen the effectiveness of your line from the first cast.

Secondly, check for any rough objects in or around your swim. Whenever possible, take the time to clear out any submerged items from below the water level and dispose of them properly; if you cannot do this, then make sure you are aware of any objects and do all you can to avoid them.

Thirdly, particles of sand, grit or dirt picked up on the line cause wear to both line and rings. A good tip is at the end of a fishing session to wind in your line, running it through a moist cloth. You'll be surprised at the deposit you will collect.

Knots

Ensure knots are tied correctly, tightly and are lubricated. A knot is usually the weakest link between you and the fish. Practice your knot carefully until you can tie them blindfold.
Make sure all your knots are tied correctly and look right and neat. A bad looking knot usually is a bad knot.

*all the above information reproducted with the kind permission of Ultima UK