Hey there my fellow fishing enthusiasts. Today, I am going to see what we can put on our reels as I discuss my 3 best monofilament fishing line options for Bass this year. As usual with all things to do with fishing, this is an area where there is a massive difference of opinion and with so many different options out there, it is easy to see why.
Monofilament (usually shortened to be just called ‘Mono’) is considered the most popular type of line when it comes to fishing in general due to its ease of use and stretchy qualities. It is generally more affordable compared to other types too so if you are a fan of it, and like to chase the Bass, then let’s see what options we have to assist in landing them as well…
My 3 recommended monofilament fishing line options for Bass fishing
I will review these in more detail below but if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my 3 are listed here for your convenience:
Line types
Ok, so the first thing we probably need to do here is quickly outline each of the line types we are discussing. Here is what you are looking at when it comes to the mono fishing line.
Monofilament
Mono line is the ‘traditional’ fishing line that everybody used before braid became more popular. It can be made of several materials but usually consists of varying types of nylon and is a single line rather than many strands linked together (hence the name monofilament). As technology has improved, the old nylon makeup has been blended with other polymers and carbon materials to allow for improved qualities such as stretch, abrasion resistance, and strength.
Mono is traditionally a greenish color that is designed to reduce visibility in the water however it can now also be purchased in some colors such as yellow, red, brown, or even a clear, colorless option.
Fluorocarbon
Fluorocarbon (fluoro) fishing line is a newer, more modern version of mono and, if I am being honest, have usually just used it as a leader rather than spooling my reel with it. More recently I have however been spooling some of my own lines with flouro rather than braid and am finding that I quite like its feel when a fish is on.
There is a massive scientific explanation for the makeup of Fluorocarbon however essentially it is still a single line albeit stronger and more abrasive resistant than its nylon cousin. ‘Fluoro’ is also considered to be nearly invisible to fish making it best in environments.
Why use mono for Bass fishing?
Probably the best way to clarify why you would want to use mono for Bass fishing in the first place, especially if braid is considered stronger and better at pulling fish quickly out from under structure where they like to hide, is to outline its advantages here. The real advantage to mono for Bass fishing is its stretchiness meaning that if you are using spinnerbaits and chatterbaits then this extra ‘give’ provides a buffer when the fish strikes – especially as Bass hit hard!
This stretchiness is also good for those rocky bottoms where the Smallmouth like to hide as it will pull around the rocks etc. without snapping. In these cases I would probably recommend fluorocarbon as it is a little more abrasion resistant as well.
Check out these: Braid options for Bass
Mono Pros
- Great for beginners.
- Easy to use in terms of tying knots etc.
- Low visibility for fish (especially when using fluorocarbon).
- The line has good stretch providing extra safety when trolling for bigger fish.
- Generally cheaper to purchase than braid (although the cost of braid is coming down all the time).
- Slow sinking making it good for surface lures etc.
- The stretchiness of the line makes it easier to remove tackle from snags.
Mono Cons
- Not as sensitive as braid.
- Will deteriorate in sun or after periods of non-use.
- Lower break strength (although fluorocarbon has rectified this somewhat).
- Lower abrasion resistance (again, fluorocarbon has helped here too).
- Generally not as long casting as braid.
- Holds shape from being spooled on reel meaning it can twist in the water.
Spool capacity
Ok, so the above outlines the pros, cons, and some of the recommended uses for the mono lines. As you mull over your purchase there is however one other influence to consider. When it comes to purchasing a new line – you must match your line size to the reel. This is because the size of the spool generally determines the size, length, and strength of the line that you can load into it.
Spinning reels
When it comes to spinning reels, there is a simple way to work this all out via the first number on the side. You see a fishing reel may be rated for example as a ’20’ or a ‘2000’. If this is the case, the ‘2’ is the common denominator and what you match the line to (this is not an exact science but it works for me). So, then all you need to do is match the line kilogram/pound strength to the spool. To make this easier, I have whipped up a little table below:
| Reel Size | Suggested Mono | Suggested Braid | Suggested Rod Length* |
| 10 or 1000 | 1- 2 kg/2 – 4 lb | 4 – 8 lb | 6-7 ft (line rating 1-4kg) |
| 20 or 2000 | 2- 3 kg/4 – 6 lb | 5 – 10 lb | 6-7 ft (line rating 2-5kg) |
| 25 or 2500 | 2.5- 4 kg/5 – 8 lb | 5 – 12 lb | 6-7 ft (line rating 2-5kg) |
| 40 or 4000 | 4- 6 kg/8 – 12 lb | 8 – 12 lb | 8-10 ft (line rating 3-10kg) |
| 60 or 6000 | 6- 8 kg/12 – 16 lb | 12 – 30 lb | 8-10 ft (line rating 4-10kg) |
If the line is too big, you will generally enter the painful world of birds nest city (where too much line spools off at once and tangles) and too small and you will be lamenting a snapped line every time you try and cast with a bigger sinker – or worse – if you catch a bigger fish.
Baitcasters
Baitcaster reels however work in a slightly different manner. As they can generally handle heavier lines than spinners and can cast further on the more line you can fit onto the spool the better. Baitcaster reel spool size is usually categorized as the length of line that can be loaded by line size.
For example, the reel may be specified as capable of loading “150 yards at 15lbs mono capacity – or 15/150”. Some manufacturers will also stipulate maximum and minimum line weight limits as well.
Leaders
The exception to the rule in regards to reel capacity as above is when mono is used as a leader. In short, a leader is the piece of fishing line that is used between the hook and the swivel, or tied to braid. There are several reasons for it including:
- The stronger line can be used than the rest of the spooled line.
- Higher invisibility can be achieved with a different leader.
- Greater strength, stretch, or abrasion resistance.
These results are usually achieved via the use of a stronger line than is spooled on the reel. For example, you might have a 3000 sized spinner reel with a 4 lb line spooled. As you rig the line, however, you might choose to use a 15lb fluoro leader at the hook end.
Oh, and you cannot rig up a braid spooled reel without a mono leader so if you do use braid, then you will need to get yourself some mono for this purpose as well.
FAQ
Is Mono line good for Bass fishing
Mono fishing line is a very good option for Bass fishing – especially for beginners. It is easy to work with and will hold a know very well. It also has by nature good shock absorption, abrasion resistance and stretch ability which as all good when fishing in structure.
What do I use?
In general, when I look to add a new line to a reel, I generally go for braid. I just like the feel of it when fishing and enjoy the extra strength that it has. Of course I still need mono for the leader so I do buy a bit of it…
As above however, I have recently been experimenting more with flouro and am finding that I quite like its feel and ease of use – especially on a spinner reel. I have tried all brands and types and I tend to choose Berkley if I can, however if not, I try and stick to the following rules:
- When it comes to fishing line – you definitely get what you pay for. I always recommend sticking to the tried and true brands and avoid the bargain box.
- Always match the size to the capacity of your reel – boy have I had some issues when loading mono line that is too big.
My three recommendations broken down
As with anything, there is a lot of option available online when it comes to fishing line. So I have chosen the following three in an attempt to give you options taking into consideration my rules above in terms of quality whilst looking at the best-priced line I can find with the best feedback/reviews. Based on this, I recommend the following options:
1. Berkley Trilene XL Monofilament Fishing Line
Berkley Trilene is my general go to as it is made from high-quality materials to provide a smooth cast, strength, and sensitivity which is a great combination for Bass fishing. Berkeley Trilene promotes itself as being “designed by experts that aim to develop the most advanced fishing gear”.
- Line type: Monofilament
- Strength: 2 – 30 lb
- Colors: Clear
- Length: 110 – 9000 yards
Other advantages:
- High stretch.
- Neutral buoyancy – great for topwater baits and spinners.
- Easy to tie knots with good strength.
Why have I chosen it?
As above, I would find it hard to leave this brand out of my lists as I use it on many of my spools as either a line or leader. Its strength is incredible and it gives a smooth casting and I find it easier to tie knots with etc. especially when out on the kayak or a boat. You can easily use this on any rig and is suitable for any type of baits, lures or fishing techniques.
2. KastKing FluoroKote Fishing Line
The first option provides the best of both mono and flouro worlds with a super strong option that is invisible with excellent casting capabilities. It’s low stretch, high strength and superior abrasion resistance is perfect for Bass fishing which makes it a popular choice in the market.
- Line type: Monofilament Copolymer with fluorocarbon coating
- Strength: 4 – 30 lb
- Colors: Clear
- Length: 150 – 3030 yards
Other advantages:
- Fluorocarbon coating on mono line
- Features an excellent abrasion resistance.
- Superior sensitivity and impeccable knot strength.
Why have I chosen it?
I have included this on my list due to it’s perfect specifications for Bass fishing at a great price. It has a great balance of stretch and sensitivity and available in 10 pound-test variants for all reel sizes and needs.
3. Seaguar Invizx Fishing Line
The Seaguar fishing line is one of the toughest mono lines I have seen making it perfect for chasing Bass around weeds, structure and docks etc. It is almost invisible in water and has 25% stronger knots and sinks a little faster than most others making it good for bottom lures and baits alike as well.
- Line type: Fluorocarbon
- Strength: 4 – 25 lb
- Colors: Clear
- Length: 200 yards per spool
Other advantages:
- Sinks fast.
- Non-absorbent so it won’t freeze.
- Unparalleled abrasion resistance.
Why have I chosen it?
I’ve chosen the Seaguar Invizx Fishing Line because of its quality and strength for Bass fishing. This line also sinks fast and is almost invisible in the water. It will also handle being dragged across most structures without breaking as well.
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Conclusion
And there it is – my 3 best monofilament fishing line options for Bass this year. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences with them. I would love to hear why you love one over the other below!
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time
Have fun
Paul
