Carp Fishing Line & Main Line

Types of Fishing Lines Available at CPS Tackle

We've got a variety of lines tailored for all kinds of carp anglers. Here's a quick rundown:

Monofilament Lines: Monofilament lines are flexible, user-friendly, and offer great versatility, making them ideal for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Known for their stretch, these lines can help absorb the shock of sudden strikes or aggressive carp, reducing the risk of break-offs. Monofilament is also one of the most affordable line options and ties strong, reliable knots, adding to its ease of use.

Monofilament lines float, which makes them an excellent choice for surface fishing or fishing with floating baits like dog biscuits or bread. However, their stretch, while useful in some situations, can also be a drawback when fishing at longer distances, as it can reduce sensitivity and make bite detection more difficult. Monofilament is also more prone to wear and tear compared to fluorocarbon and braid, making it less suitable for fishing in heavy cover or around sharp underwater structures. That said, for general carp fishing in open water or for surface tactics, monofilament lines provide a cost-effective and forgiving option.

Fluorocarbon Lines: Fluorocarbon lines are almost invisible underwater, making them perfect for fishing in clear conditions where wary carp might be spooked by visible line. They offer excellent abrasion resistance, outperforming monofilament when it comes to durability. Fluorocarbon also sinks faster than other lines, making it ideal for deeper fishing or when you need to keep your bait on or near the bottom.

While fluorocarbon lines excel in clear water and around rough structures, they aren’t without their drawbacks. Due to their stiffness, they can be harder to manage on the reel, especially in lighter line weights. Additionally, while they handle rough surfaces well, they aren’t as forgiving when casting in heavy cover as braided lines, particularly in very snaggy areas. That said, fluorocarbon’s low visibility and fast sinking properties make it a fantastic choice for finesse fishing, particularly when targeting wary carp in pressured or clear-water environments.

Braided Lines: Braided fishing lines offer minimal stretch and are exceptionally strong, making them highly sensitive and perfect for detecting subtle bites. Their strength-to-diameter ratio allows for greater line capacity on reels and helps anglers tackle larger fish with ease.

These lines excel in environments with heavy cover, such as lily pads or thick weed beds, where the line’s strength can cut through vegetation without snapping. However, braided lines do have some drawbacks. They aren’t as effective in areas with sharp obstacles like branches or beds of swan mussels. The rough surfaces of branches and mollusks can easily slice through the braid, potentially leading to break-offs. Therefore, while braided lines are great for cutting through soft vegetation, they may not be the best option in areas with abrasive materials or sharp underwater structures.

Advantages of High-Quality Fishing Lines

Here's why investing in high-quality carp fishing lines is worth it:

• Durability: You'll replace your line less often, which saves you money and trouble.

• Strength: Stronger lines mean you can handle bigger carp with greater confidence.

• Abrasion Resistance: Quality lines can handle rough conditions, like scraping against stones or vegetation.

• Low Visibility: Advanced fluorocarbon lines are almost invisible underwater, giving you a better chance of success.

• Better Casting Distance: Premium lines reduce friction, helping you make longer, more accurate casts.

Tips for Choosing the Best Carp Fishing Line

When you're on the hunt for the best carp fishing line, keep these things in mind:

• Water Conditions: Choose fluorocarbon lines for clear water as they are less detectable. Monofilament or braided lines are better for murky waters.

• Fishing Techniques: For surface fishing, a floating monofilament line is best, while a sinking fluorocarbon line is ideal for bottom fishing.

• Carp Size and Fishing Environment: You'll need stronger lines to handle larger carp. Braided lines, with their low stretch and high strength, are ideal for targeting big fish, especially in heavy cover or snaggy areas. However, be sure to check the rules of the water you're fishing, as some venues may restrict or prohibit the use of braided lines.

Brands Sold at CPS Tackle

At CPS Tackle, we stock lines from some of the top names in the business, such as:

• Daiwa: Famous for their strength and durability, thanks to innovative technology. 

• Korda: Perfect for serious anglers looking for lines that are nearly invisible and tough against wear.

• Nash: A favourite among pros, these lines excel in all kinds of fishing scenarios.
  
  
  

Why Choose CPS Tackle for Your Fishing Line Needs

CPS Tackle is your top choice for carp fishing lines because:

• Expert Advice: Our team of seasoned anglers is here to provide tips and advice. 

• Diverse Options: We offer a variety of lines for all carp fishing techniques.

• Affordable Pricing: Our affordable options ensure you get the most value.

FAQs

What is the best line strength for carp fishing?

You generally look at a line strength 15+ pounds for carp fishing. This gives you a good balance between strength and sensitivity, making it easier to handle large carp while keeping your lines manageable.

Can I use a braided line for carp fishing in clear water?

You can, but remember that these lines are highly visible in clear water and might scare away fish. Most anglers get around this problem by attaching a fluorocarbon leader to the braided line to reduce its visibility while maintaining its strength.

What colour fishing line is best for carp fishing?

For carp fishing, low-visibility colours like green or clear are ideal, especially in clear water. In murky conditions, darker green or brown lines work best to blend in with the environment.

When should I change my fishing line?

How often you change your fishing line depends on the usage and conditions under which it was used. Check for damages like frays and nicks. Replace your line once a year or whenever major snags/breaks occur.

Is it necessary to use a leader with a braided line?

Yes, especially in clear water. A leader made from either fluorocarbon or monofilament serves as an invisible connection point between the mainline and bait. It also gives some stretchability, making the rig more efficient.

How do I maintain my fishing lines to ensure longevity?

To keep your lines in top shape, rinse them after each use, and ensure they're thoroughly dry before storing them in a cool, dark place to protect them from UV damage and other factors that can cause wear.