SIZE DOES MATTER?

Come on now, I’m talking about line size. What did you think this was about? Line size can make a difference between the right bait and a good day and the right bait and a bad day. A general rule is to fish the lightest line possible, especially in a clear body of water. At Lake Pleasant, for instance, I prefer 8 lb. test but rarely go over 12 lb. In fact, I use 6 lb. for finesse style fishing. Today’s line manufacturers are marketing products that may be 6lb. test with 8lb. strength, so you can get away with smaller diameter lines. If the water is stained, you can go with a heavier line. A heavy line will also effect your baits action though. When crank baiting, for example, you get better action on lighter line. But when you are pitching, flipping, or throwing spinner baits you will want that extra strength.

I believe the line color is not as important, but a pro once told me to use clear line in green water and green line in clear water. Fluorescent line is a great tool for night fishing under a black light. You can see your line move if a minnow hits it.

Kip Pollay