Anglers have a love/hate relationship with a braided line. One angler believes it is the best thing since opening day. The next guy thinks it is the bane of his existence. Like most fish stories, the truth is found somewhere in the middle.

There is little doubt that braided lines have revolutionized modern fishing. In the right situation, using the correct technique is an invaluable addition to any rig. Of course, there are also times when old-fashioned monofilament can’t be beat. The key is learning when a braided line can be used to your advantage and when it should remain in the tackle box.

Following are pros and cons of braided line vs. monofilament

The braided line has many advantages over traditional monofilament. In many aspects, its introduction has revolutionized fishing.

Strength. The most significant advantage is its superior strength. This is invaluable when targeting larger species or in heavy cover. It can also allow anglers to utilize heavier tackle in deeper water.

Limited Stretch. Monofilament stretches as much as 30% when under strain. The braided line exhibits almost zero stretch under the same conditions. This makes it an excellent choice when success depends on feeling every nibble. It also provides a near-vertical presentation in deep water and allows for very accurate detection of the bottom contour.

Diameter. Besides strength, one of the greatest draws of a braided line is its reduced diameter. A 15-pound test braided has a diameter like 4-pound monofilament. Anglers can reduce the weight of their tackle while increasing the load capacity of their favorite spool at the same time.

Long life. Braided lines are less likely to suffer damage due to abrasion, nicks, or when placed under heavy strain. It rarely develops a memory and remains flexible even after extreme use. It can not only be fished harder but for extended periods without change.

Of course, every coin has two sides, and every pro has a con.

The same is true for braided lines; the cons can sometimes be tremendous disadvantages.

Visibility – despite a smaller diameter, the braided line is obvious. Fish often shy away from braided lines, especially in shallow or clear water.

Energy transfer. Because of its near-zero stretch, the braided line transfers more energy to other rig parts. When working a lure, you may notice too much action. This can often result in pulling the lure out of the strike zone too early. Once a fish bites, this energy can transfer to the rod itself. The extra strain can increase the risk of broken tips when fighting larger fish or in deep water.

Tangles. Most braided line floats. It is more prone to tangling when fished with topwater lures or close to other lines. When tangles occur, they can be almost impossible to remove without cutting the line.

Too Slippery – The braided line is slippery, which makes it challenging to get knots to hold. Many common fishing knots will slip free under pressure, leading to losing gear and fish.

Use the pros and conquer the cons.

Anglers who use braided lines have learned to embrace the good and conquer the bad. This is a balancing act. At times, it means letting the line do its thing. At other times, it means adapting your technique.

One of the best applications for braided line is in deep saltwater fishing. Braided line allows anglers to increase their reel’s capacity. This, in turn, increases their available depth. Plus, it increases the ability to feel even slight bites at great distances.

Freshwater anglers have also used a braided line to their advantage. It has become almost commonplace when fishing heavy cover. Unlike monofilament, it will cut through most natural aquatic vegetation. This allows bass anglers to fish areas earlier off limits because of a fear of losing gear.

Only some knots will work with a braided line. You must select a knot that works well on slippery surfaces. One of the favorite knots for this purpose is the improved clinch knot tied with seven wraps. Your knot’s hold may improve even more if you add a short tagline or even a dot of super glue.

Finally, there is the matter of visibility. Many anglers shy away from braided lines because they are so visible. Of course, this is something most anglers look to avoid. It is impossible to make braided lines invisible, but you can reduce what the fish see. By adding a short monofilament leader, you not only add a break to fool the fish, but it can also act as a shock absorber. So there you have it: the good, the bad, and the ugly regarding braided line. There is no doubt that a braided line can improve your fishing experience. The key is learning when and how that is.