Pike fishing is an exciting and rewarding activity. However, to succeed in catching this predator, you need to be well equipped and know how to choose the right equipment and especially a good fishing line. Indeed, the pike is a predator with about 700 very sharp teeth.
One of the essential elements for a good fishing session is the choice of the right line and diameter. In this article, we will guide you through this process by discussing the different types of lines available on the market, as well as the criteria to consider to make the right choice.
Different types of lines for pike fishing
There are several types of lines for pike fishing, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Some fishing lines will be used as a body of line and others for making rigs, mounts or leaders. Here are the three main types:
- Nylon monofilament line: This type of line is the most common and the cheapest. It offers good resistance to abrasion and knots, while being flexible enough to easily cast lures. It differs from fluorocarbon in its greater elasticity. Among the many nylons available on the market, the Invisible 3G Generation nylon from Yuki is known for its incredible abrasion resistance and invisibility under the water surface. It is widely used for sea fishing.
- Fluorocarbon line: Fluorocarbon is very similar to nylon, but it has the advantage of being almost invisible underwater, which can be an asset to deceive the mistrust of pikes. We recommend our article which will discuss the question of which fluorocarbon you need to fish for pike. Thus, this line will no longer be a secret to you and you will understand why it is an excellent element.
- Braided line: The braided line is made up of several strands of synthetic fibers, which gives it a very high resistance to breakage and abrasion. The braid is a fishing line available in 4, 8 or 12 strands. For pike fishing, we recommend a 4 or 8 strand braid to maintain its abrasion resistance. It is also thinner than other lines for the same diameter, allowing longer and more accurate casts. Its main disadvantage is its price, generally higher than that of nylon and fluorocarbon. Its non-existent elasticity allows to hook effectively. The Durabraid Moss Green braid from Spiderwire provides 25% more resistance than conventional braids.
- Titanium wire: Titanium wire is used to manufacture rigs or leader wires. It has the advantage of having no memory of shape. Thus, it can be used for fishing several fish without its structure being weakened. The Freestyle Reload Titanium Leader from Spro is a spool of titanium wire ideal for making your leader wires or rigs.
- Steel wire: Steel wire is similar to titanium. It is thin and resistant but its memory of shape does not allow it to survive multiple pikes. It is still more affordable than titanium and effective against cuts. You will find steel wire at Spro, Daiwa or Fox Rage in the form of a spool or ready-to-fish leader line. This is the case with the Daiwa Prorex 7x7 Wire Leader Steel, a ready-to-fish leader line equipped with a barrel swivel and a clip. To design your own leader wire or fixture, Spro offers the 7x7 Supreme Steel Wire steel wire on a 4m spool
See all our lines for pike fishing
Criteria to consider when choosing the right diameter of line
To choose the right diameter line for pike fishing, there are several criteria to consider:
The size and weight of the lures used
The choice of line diameter largely depends on the size and weight of the lures you plan to use. Indeed, a line that is too thin may break under the tension during casting or pulling on a large lure, while a line that is too thick may limit the casting distance and make the lure less attractive to the pike's eye.
In general, it is recommended to use a braid whose diameter is proportional to the weight of the lure:
- Light lures (from 10 to 70g): line diameter between 0.20 and 0.25 mm
- Medium lures (between 70 and 130g): line diameter between 0.25 and 0.30 mm
- Heavy lures (more than 130 g): line diameter greater than 0.30 mm
For leader lines, be sure to use a fishing line that can withstand the pike's teeth. For lures smaller than 10cm, you can use a steel or titanium line, thinner than a fluorocarbon.
Beyond 10cm, your fluorocarbon must be at least 60/100 and can go up to 100/100.
Fishing conditions
The choice of line diameter must also take into account the fishing conditions you will encounter:
- Clear and shallow waters: a thin and discreet line will be more suitable so as not to scare off wary pikes. So be sure to use a 30/100 discretion leader followed by a minimum 60/100 leader to withstand the pike's teeth.
- Crowded and/or deep waters: in these conditions, braid is an excellent choice. The braid will withstand abrasion. Opt for a diameter of at least 0.25mm.
The line's resistance
The line's resistance is an important criterion to consider, as it determines its ability to withstand the tension exerted during the fight with the pike. To avoid breaks, it is advisable to use a line whose resistance is greater than the weight of the fish you hope to catch. For example, if you are targeting pikes of 10 kg, a line with a resistance of 12 to 15 kg will be suitable.
Moreover, your fishing line will have to resist the numerous sharp teeth of the pike.
Finally, don't forget to choose a line that suits your fishing equipment: rod, reel and lures must be in harmony to ensure a successful and enjoyable fishing session.
In summary: how to choose the right line diameter for pike fishing?
The choice of the right line diameter for pike fishing is based on several criteria, including the type and weight of the lures used, fishing conditions, targeted fish and desired resistance. By taking these factors into account, you will be able to select a suitable line for your practice and put all the odds in your favor to catch this predator fish so much sought after by fishermen.
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