Best Fishing Line - Braid vs. Mono vs. Fluorocarbon

When should you use mono? What about braided line or Fluorocarbon? Matt explains what each line is for, how to use it, and when to avoid it. We also discuss leader materials and how to tie connection knots.

This video goes in depth about all 3 fishing lines. We ignored copolymer for the sake of time as its really just an "in between" between fluorocarbon and monofilament. All of these different styles of line are important. Each one has a place and will increase your success while fishing. But use the wrong line for the wrong purpose and it will drive you insane! A perfect example that we forgot to cover in the video is that fluorocarbon sinks. Use it for topwater and it will drive you insane! But use it in ultra deep water and it will make it easier to keep bottom contact.

Below is a break down of the different lines that we use on a regular basis.

Braided Line...

Monofilament...

Fluorocarbon...

Connection and Main Line Knots...

Blood Knot- This is my core knot for all connections between braid and mono or braid and fluoro. If connecting to fluorocarbon its CRITICAL that the knot is wet when cinching up or the fluoro will be burned.

Nail Knot- This is an extremely strong connection knot but requires an extra tool or straw to tie it effectively on the water.

Palomar: This is by far the most "universal" knot in all of bass fishing for tying on a variety of baits and lures. Use it for any application up to 30 lb line, but never over 30 lb or you'll risk line slip.

San Diego Jam: This knot was designed for heavy line but has proven itself as a great option all the way down to 12 lb line. However, if you are using lines of 30 lbs or heavier, this is the ONLY knot I would consider using. There is no slip, its a clean knot, easy to tie, and you can see if its tied correctly before fishing with it.

Our line applications...
Finesse in crystal clear water: 10 lb braid (use 15 lb if on a low end reel) to 5-8 lb fluoro
Finesse in clean water: 10 lb braid to 6-10 lb mono
Texas Rigs: 40 lb braid to 12-17 lb mono
Finesse Jigs: 30 lb braid to 10-15 lb mono or 12-15 lb fluoro
Jig Fishing: 50 lb braid to 15-20 lb mono
Crankbait option 1: 12 lb fluorocarbon (Assassin)
Crankbait option 2: 20 lb Braid (Sufix 832) to 12 lb mono
Swimbait: 80 lb braid to 30 lb mono
punching: 65 lb braid (no leader)
Frogging: 50-65 lb braid (No leader)
Jerkbait option 1: 20 lb braid to 10 lb mono leader
Jerkbait option 2: 12 lb fluorocarbon
Shaky Head: 30 lb braid to 10 lb mono
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Equipment We Recommend...

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[dirty_]

I actually wish you would have went longer with this video. This is one of the most important topics there is in fishing. I've been waiting for this for a while. Good stuff

[nightwing]

Thanks for the video, I switched to fluorocarbon from mono. I was breaking knots when I had no problem on mono. This video helped understand a possibility.

[gligh]

Not sure if anyone else watched that 20/20 show on the fires, but could Tim is a true hero. He had saved the lives of those in danger of the fires. Please make a video updating us on this! Great job on the channel, you guys are just more than knowledgeable fishermen!

[nightsquats]

I know this vid is old but it's Never too late to appreciate fine folks like Tim who run towards emergencies most of us would run From. Cheers and thanks Tim and his ilk!

[chrisboyd]

Thanks for sharing. Don't worry about going too long. We enjoy learning.

[garyautullo]

Matt been fishing tournaments for over 40 years and that was one of the most informative videos on fishing line. I truly appreciate all the information, thank you !!

[johnnyboy]

Why these guys don't have a million subs blows my mind. The way they lay everything out for you, every little detail they go over to make us better fisherman. I could listen to them teach about fishing all day! Stay safe out there guys and hoping you and your families can return home soon. Much love.

[JoeyB]

Thanks Matt, I transitioned from the Alberto knot to your blood knot for leader connections..and I'll never go back when you tie it right it's just right 100% confidence in it. Thanks again

[matthewlidrich]

Dude, I am so thankful for your frankness. I have been fishing for nearly 40 years and really appriciate folks who are real and don't hold back their thoughts. I too am really about finding the right line for the right applications and feel compelled to share those experiences with others. Keep on being you and being open with passing on what works for you! Good luck and tight lines...

[guyberinger]

Great video as usual.Just saw Tim Little on 20/20 helping people in the devastating wildfires out West .Hope and pray everyone gets out safely.Thank you for what you do.

[okiebassyak]

Sometimes I feel like the last guy on the planet who still uses mono... certainly the only guy who uses braid to mono leaders... and I've also caught my biggest fish on that setup! Thanks for spreading the word!

[colton]

This video is a sign from God. I was just struggling with this topic this week. Thank you for the video! God bless you guys!

[shtty]

I love these long videos man, you're so good with lecturing. I get so excited when I see a 20+ min video get posted from you guys. Stay safe Tim and thank you to all law enforcement/first responders out there who don't falter in the face of danger

[proteusxavier]

A very thorough description Matt. Good work. 25 minutes of important information.

[feralgrandad]

Hi from the UK. You just anawered every question i ever had about line! Really simple, really easy to understand. No BS. Thank you.

[JonP_-inf]

Very good information! Idk how much every fisherman thinks about line types but I'll tell you it's too much and this fixes that problem.

Thanks!

[craigburness]

Nice work Matt! Great explanation of a confusing and polar topic.

[Zodiackilla]

Just wanted to thank you both for helping make me a better fisherman.

[curtrund]

Wow! Just watched in an instant. Didn't know Tim was a game warden. True hero! Blessed to have met you both.

[urbanbassslayers]

I went %100 Braided line recently. We have been fishing Rancho Murieta lakes and still crushing them even with the braided line. Sometimes the fish just don't care when they want to eat. I may try tying Leaders more often after watching this video. Great Info Guys! Stay Safe out there!