Braided fishing line is known for its durability and strength, but like any fishing gear, it requires proper maintenance to ensure peak performance. By taking care of your braided line, you can extend its lifespan and maintain its effectiveness on the water. Here are some essential maintenance tips to keep your braided line in top shape, courtesy of Reaction Tackle.
Regular Inspection
- Check for Abrasions and Frays
- Regularly inspect your braided line for signs of wear, such as abrasions, frays, or nicks. Pay close attention to the first few feet of line that sees the most action.
- If you notice any damage, cut off the affected section and retie your line. This ensures that you’re always fishing with a strong, reliable line.
- Look for Color Fading
- Over time, braided lines can fade due to exposure to sunlight and water. While some color fading is normal and doesn’t affect the line’s strength, it’s still a good idea to monitor it.
- Reaction Tackle offers a no-fade braided line option made using our innovative ColorLock System, which ensures the color remains vibrant and true over time. Consider upgrading to this line to avoid the common issue of color fading.
Proper Cleaning
- Rinse After Use
- After each fishing trip, rinse your braided line with fresh water, especially if you’ve been fishing in saltwater. Salt and debris can weaken the line over time.
- Use a gentle stream of water to clean the line while it’s still on the reel. This helps remove any salt or dirt that may have accumulated.
- Dry Thoroughly
- Allow your braided line to dry completely before storing your gear. Wet line can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can weaken the line and affect its performance.
- Leave your reel and line in a dry, ventilated area to ensure they dry thoroughly.
Storage Best Practices
- Avoid Direct Sunlight
- Store your fishing gear, including braided line, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can degrade the line’s fibers and reduce its strength.
- Use a tackle bag or storage box to protect your gear from the elements.
- Loosen the Drag
- Before storing your reel, loosen the drag to prevent the line from stretching or developing memory. This helps maintain the line’s original shape and strength.
- Keeping the drag loose also reduces pressure on the reel’s internal components, prolonging its lifespan.
Usage Tips
- Use a Leader
- When fishing with braided line, consider using a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader. This helps protect the braided line from abrasion and increases your chances of a successful catch.
- Leaders also provide better invisibility in the water, making your presentation more natural to the fish.
- Retie Knots Regularly
- Retie your knots periodically, especially after catching a fish or getting snagged. Braided line can slip with traditional knots, so use knots designed for braid, such as the Palomar knot or double uni knot.
- Regularly retying ensures your knots remain strong and secure.
- Spool Your Line Correctly
- When spooling braided line onto your reel, make sure to apply even tension to prevent line twists and tangles. Use a line spooler if possible to achieve a consistent, tight wrap.
- Overfilling or underfilling your spool can lead to casting issues and line management problems, so aim for the reel’s recommended line capacity.
By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your braided fishing line in excellent condition, ensuring it performs reliably trip after trip. Reaction Tackle’s braided lines are designed for durability and strength, and our No Fade braided lines featuring the Innovative ColorLock System offer enhanced color retention. Proper care will maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of both types of lines.
