What is the Best Fishing Line for Trout in all Situations
When it comes to trout fishing, there is a method to the type of equipment you need to use, from the fly rod, to the trout bait, to the fly line. A good angler knows they can’t use just any regular fishing line for fishing trout. There are actually certain fishing lines that are the best to use for fishing trout. And while monofilament line, braided line, and fluorocarbon fishing line are some of the most available options,it’s your preference which would work best when shopping around for them in a store or online.
That’s why we’re going to take you through our list of the best fishing trout fishing line options for this elusive fish, letting you know the most important things to consider when shopping for this product. At the end of the day, the best type of fishing line for trout is one they can’t see, making our selections some of the most ideal there are.
Important Things to Consider
Before we take you through our picks for the best fishing line for trout, we’d like to point out the different factors that you should consider in your fishing situation. This will give you a better idea of the qualities that are included in our favorites for catching trout, and what to look for in the future when purchasing a new main line.
Time
You’ll be able to fish for trout all throughout the year, however, you’ll have to wait for late spring to find the big fish. This is due to the fact that rivers and lakes generally get stocked in the early winter, seeing as fish are most active when the water temperature is 39 to 67°F. It’s also best to choose a cloudy day to go fishing, due to the trout’s impeccable eyesight. Fishing under the shade of a tree can make a difference when it comes to reeling in trout.
Weight
Weight is important when it comes to picking out a fishing line for trout, and it should be the first thing you look for on the box. While fishing lines vary in weight, you should always try to opt for the heavier numbers. A fluorocarbon line that’s 4 to 6 pounds is usually your best bet, since big fish won’t be able to break your main line.
If you’re using a monofilament fishing line, it’s best to go for 2 to 4 pounds, since that line weight is not likely to scare your fish. While there are no hard and fast rules for how heavy yourfluoro line or mono line should be, the weight of your line depends mostly on the location you’re fishing in, as well as the weight of the trout you’re looking to catch.
Visibility
Trout give off the impression of incredibly shy fish that will not want to be lingering around your line. However, this is likely because of the fact that they have perfect vision, making them much more aware of your line’s advances. This is why you can’t use any line you come across – it needs to be as invisible as it possibly can be in the water. Both monofilament and braided are not ideal choices for trout being highly visible, with fluorocarbon usually being your best bet.
Strength
Strength is another important factor to consider when shopping for a fishing line for trout. While a lighter line is seemingly best for trout since it’s the thinnest and therefore the least visible, it also may not be strong enough for bigger trout.
Color
Sticking with a translucent kind of fishing line is your absolute best bet when catching trout. Trout are easily spooked and won’t come near anything with color, rendering any type of lure ineffective. Stay away from fishing lines that have even a hint of color, especially if you’re fishing in clear waters.
Water Clarity
Considering the water clarity is important when selecting your line. The only time you may be able to get away with a colorful line is when you’re fishing in darker water. However, it’s still best to select translucent, no matter what the situation.
Our Picks for The Best Fishing Line for Trout in All Situations
1. Seaguar Blue Label 30-Yards Fluorocarbon Leader
Seaguar is the most trusted line for many experienced fishermen and is often reached for in most fishing gear packs. This fishing line is made of 100% fluorocarbon leader material, and its small diameter lends some invisibility while in water. The popularity of this fishing line stems back to 1971 when it was first released, so odds are, most experienced fishermen have tried it.
Features:
- Strong tensile and knot strength
- Pure fluorocarbon makes it practically invisible under the water
- Remarkable abrasion resistance
- Non-reflective
- Great shock absorption
- Ideal for freshwater/saltwater fishing
- Sturdy to withstand rough resistance from trout
2. Hi-Seas Grand Slam Fluorocarbon Coated Copolymer Fishing Line
While this fishing line isn’t pure fluorocarbon, it performs similarly with its 100% fluorocarbon coat. The fact that it’s not pure fluorocarbon significantly reduces its price (by half the amount), while still being an exceptional fishing line. The material underneath the coating is a copolymer, which actually aids with invisibility under water, making this a great budget choice.
Features:
- Best for fishing in warm weather and deep water
- Sinks fast
- Has exceptional abrasion resistance
- Does not absorb water
- Works well for all kinds of situations and types of bait
- Doesn’t stretch
3. P-Line Floroclear Clear Fishing Line
This fishing line is most ideal if you’re looking for the ultimate knot strength. The P-Line Floroclear is a hybrid of fluorocarbon and nylon, giving it a softer touch. Used by both professional and amateur anglers, this fishing line is a seriously tough product, with low stretch and is virtually invisible under water.
Features:
- Will not curl like most fluorocarbon lines
- Small diameter makes it ideal for trout regardless of the season
- Superior strength and durability
- Low memory
- Supreme castability
Can Trout Really Spot a Fishing Line?
At the end of the day, unless your fishing line is literally invisible, trout are going to be able to spot it. They will be suspicious of even the slightest sighting of a line in the water (rightfully so), so making sure that your line fits the above specifications is crucial. Choose only lines that are invisible once they are in water. Combining this with an effective lure or bait for trout, and you’ll have the best possible chance of catching trout.