The Best Fishing Line For Trout In 2024

Written By John VanDerLaan

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I have been trout fishing for more than 50 years and in that time fishing lines have changed dramatically. I have used just about every quality fishing line on the market and I am going to share my knowledge and experience with you, so that you can find the best trout fishing line for your style of fishing.

If I had to pick one fishing line for trout that would cover most styles of fishing, it would be P-Line Fluorocarbon Fishing Line.

Best Overall

P-Line Fluorocarbon Fishing Line

P-Line Fluoro

Best Mono

Sufix Elite Monofilament Line

Suffix Elite

Best Braid

Suffix 832 Advanced Braid Fishing Line

suffix 832 advanced

Mono, Flouro Or Braid Fishing Line For Trout. Which Is Best?

When it comes to trout fishing, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Each type of fishing line has its unique characteristics that make it suitable for different situations. Monofilament lines are versatile and affordable, making them popular among trout anglers. They offer good knot strength and stretch, but can be prone to abrasion and memory retention.

Fluorocarbon lines, on the other hand, are a popular choice for leader material and mainline due to their low visibility, high abrasion resistance, and low stretch. However, they can be more expensive and sink faster than mono.

Braid lines are ideal for trolling, vertical jigging, and float fishing, boasting high strength and sensitivity. However, they require a fluorocarbon leader for invisibility, making them less suitable for some situations.

This guide will delve into the characteristics, pros, and cons of each fishing line type, aiding you in selecting the perfect one for your trout fishing adventures. Additionally, this guide will delve into considerations for choosing the right pound test and color for your fishing line and provide top choices for monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braid lines currently available.

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Monofilament

Rainbow Trout On A San Juan Worm

Monofilament line is a favorite among trout anglers due to its versatility and ease of use. It is suitable for most trout fishing methods and offers an excellent balance of affordability and performance. Monofilament lines possess high knot strength and stretchability, making them particularly suitable for fly fishing.

However, they can be prone to abrasion and memory retention, which can impact casting distance and accuracy. Despite these drawbacks, monofilament remains a popular option for trout fishing, as it is available in various sizes and colors, allowing anglers to tailor their setup to the specific conditions and preferences.

RELATED: Best Trout Fishing Reels

Fluorocarbon

Fluorocarbon line has become increasingly popular among trout anglers due to its low visibility, high abrasion resistance, and low stretch. It is often used as a leader material attached to braid or mono. Fluorocarbon’s near-invisibility in water makes it less likely to spook wary fish, while its higher abrasion resistance and faster sink rate make it an ideal choice for fishing around submerged structures or in heavy cover.

However, fluorocarbon lines can be more expensive than monofilament lines and may require a bit more finesse when tying knots. Overall, fluorocarbon lines are a popular choice for trout fishing, particularly in clear water conditions where low visibility is essential.

Braid

Braid fishing line is known for its long casting distance, heightened sensitivity, and low visibility when paired with a fluorocarbon leader. While it can be more expensive than monofilament lines, its strength and low stretch make it an excellent option for trolling, vertical jigging, and float fishing for trout.

However, braid lines tend to have lower abrasion resistance, so using a leader is essential to ensure durability and invisibility. Fishing in a lake requires particular equipment. It is best to use braided line with a 3 or 4-pound fluorocarbon leader.

How We Rated The Best Fishing Line For Trout

Releasing A Brown trout

In our quest to find the best fishing line for trout, we considered a variety of factors, including:

  • Castability
  • Sensitivity
  • Abrasion resistance
  • Knot strength
  • Stretch
  • Memory
  • Available colors
  • Manufacturing quality

Each type of fishing line has its strengths and weaknesses, and selecting the right line for your specific fishing situation is crucial for success.

The upcoming sections will provide a detailed examination of these factors along with recommendations for premier monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braid lines suitable for trout fishing.

Castability

Casting For Trout In A Small River

Castability is an essential factor in fishing, as it affects your ability to accurately cast your bait or lure into the water. Several aspects influence castability, including:

  • The type of fishing line
  • The weight of the lure
  • The rod length
  • The reel type

Monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braided lines all have distinct characteristics that can impact castability. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Monofilament lines are typically the most suitable for castability due to their flexibility and low memory.
  • Fluorocarbon lines are known for their invisibility in the water, making them a good choice for clear water fishing.
  • Braided lines have high strength and low stretch, which can improve sensitivity and hook-setting power.

Choosing the right line for your specific fishing situation can greatly enhance your castability and, ultimately, your success on the water. In fact, using the best fishing lines can make all the difference.

Sensitivity

Brown Trout

Sensitivity is crucial in fishing, as it allows you to detect subtle bites from fish and identify the optimal fishing spots by sensing the lake or river bed. A sensitive rod gives the angler the ability to discern the ‘bite’ or ‘bottom’ more precisely.

The type of fishing line employed can have a significant impact on sensitivity. For instance, fluorocarbon lines are less prone to stretch and more abrasion-resistant than monofilament lines, thus offering increased sensitivity. Selecting a line with the right balance of sensitivity and durability can vastly improve your trout fishing experience.

Abrasion Resistance

Abrasion resistance is an essential consideration when selecting a fishing line, as it determines the line’s ability to withstand damage from contact with rough surfaces, such as rocks or underwater structures. Monofilament lines are typically more abrasion-resistant than braided lines, while fluorocarbon lines are generally more abrasion-resistant than monofilament lines.

When fishing in areas with a high potential for abrasion, choosing a line with enhanced abrasion resistance can significantly increase the lifespan of your fishing line and reduce the likelihood of line breakage.

RELATED: Best Spinners For Trout

Knot Holding Strength

Tying a knot with Trout Fishing Line

Knot holding strength is a crucial aspect of fishing, as it determines the security of the connection between your line and your hook or lure. Various knots have different holding strengths, with some being more secure than others. The type of line and the technique used to tie the knot can also impact knot holding strength.

Ensuring your fishing line has a strong knot holding strength can greatly enhance your chances of success on the water.

Stretch

Stretch in fishing lines refers to the degree of elasticity or flexibility when the line is pulled. Having stretch in a fishing line offers several benefits, such as:

  • Absorbing shock when a fish strikes
  • Making it easier to set the hook
  • Reducing line breakage
  • Reducing fatigue when casting.

However, the stretch can also impede sensitivity and decrease casting distance and accuracy. Selecting a fishing line with the appropriate amount of stretch for your specific fishing situation can optimize your performance on the water.

Memory

Big Rainbow Trout

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Memory in fishing line refers to the line’s tendency to maintain the shape of the spool it was wound on, which can lead to the formation of curls or loops that impact casting distance and accuracy. To reduce line memory, anglers often soak the line in hot water or use line conditioners.

Choosing a fishing line with low memory can enhance your casting performance and increase your chances of success on the water.

Available Colors

The color of your fishing line can have a significant impact on its visibility and attractiveness to fish. Lighter colors tend to be more effective in clear water and sunny conditions, while darker colors are more effective in murky water and cloudy conditions.

Additionally, the color of a fishing lure can be used to mimic the natural colors of prey, which can make it more attractive to fish. Understanding the importance of fishing line colors and selecting the right color for your specific fishing situation can greatly enhance your catch rates.

Manufacturing Quality

The quality of manufacturing has a direct correlation to the price of the product. Higher-quality materials and processes incur greater costs, as well as the necessity of more rigorous testing to ensure the product meets the desired standards.

When selecting a line for trout fishing, it is essential to consider both the manufacturing quality and the price. While higher-quality lines may come with a higher price tag, they are typically more reliable and durable. Finding a balance between quality and price that accommodates your budget and needs is crucial.

Best Monofilament Line For Trout Fishing

Trout anglers widely favor monofilament lines for their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and user-friendly nature.

This segment will evaluate leading monofilament fishing lines for trout such as Sufix Elite and Trilene XL and offer insights on the appropriate situations for using monofilament and its lifespan.

Sufix Elite Monofilament Line

Sufix Elite Monofilament Line

Sufix Elite Monofilament Line is a widely favored option for trout fishing, providing an ideal blend of strength, sensitivity, and cost-effectiveness. This line offers excellent strength, consistent diameter, easy handling and casting, low memory, and superior knot strength, abrasion resistance, sensitivity, and suppleness.

Additionally, it is an affordable option, making it a reliable choice for anglers of all skill levels.


Trilene XL Monofilament Fishing Line

Berkley Trilene XL Monofilament Fishing Line

I have been using Trilene XL for more than 40 years. It has served me very well for trout fishing and many other freshwater fishing applications.

Trilene XL Monofilament Fishing Line is an economical choice that offers:

  • Good stretch and knot strength
  • Suitable for a range of trout fishing scenarios
  • Super limp, low memory construction
  • Easy casting
  • Surprisingly high sensitivity
  • Trouble-free performance

Although it may not be as resistant to abrasion as other monofilament lines, Trilene XL remains a popular option for trout fishing due to its affordability and versatility.

When To Use Monofilament Line For Trout Fishing

Two Men Trout Fishing In A River

Monofilament line is a popular choice among trout anglers due to its versatility and ease of use. It is suitable for most trout fishing methods, including fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing, and works well in a variety of water conditions.

Monofilament lines are an excellent option when you need a line that offers a good balance of strength, sensitivity, and affordability, making them ideal for novice and experienced anglers alike, whether they’re using a fly line or other types of lines. For those seeking top-quality performance, consider using a premium monofilament line.

How Long Does Monofilament Fishing Line Last?

The durability of monofilament fishing line can vary greatly and depends on factors such as the quality of the line, the conditions it is used in, and proper maintenance. To prolong the life of your monofilament line, store it in a cool, dry place, and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight.

Additionally, clean the line after each use and replace it when it shows signs of wear and tear. By taking care of your monofilament line, you can ensure it lasts as long as possible and maintains its performance.

Best Fluorocarbon Fishing Line For Trout

Fluorocarbon lines have become increasingly popular among trout anglers due to their low visibility, high abrasion resistance, and low stretch.

This segment will assess the leading fluorocarbon fishing lines for trout, such as Seaguar Tatsu and P-Line, and share guidance on the right circumstances for deploying fluorocarbon line in trout fishing.

Seaguar Tatsu Fluorocarbon Line

Seaguar Tatsu Fluorocarbon Line

Seaguar Tatsu Fluorocarbon Line is a high-quality fluorocarbon line that offers excellent features for fishing:

  • It has excellent abrasion resistance, making it durable and long-lasting.
  • It is nearly invisible underwater, providing a stealthy presentation to fish.
  • It is ideal for use as leader material and mainline.
  • It is particularly suitable for trout fishing in clear water conditions.

Seaguar Tatsu Fluorocarbon Line is a popular choice among trout anglers who require a strong, reliable line that is almost undetectable by fish.

P-Line Fluorocarbon Fishing Line

P-Line Fluorocarbon Fishing Line

I love P-Line. I use it for trout fishing and I also use it for may other fishing applications. I like that it is not as expensive as the Seaguar line above.

P-Line Fluorocarbon Fishing Line is a versatile and affordable fluorocarbon line that is suitable for various trout fishing situations. This line offers:

  • Fluorocarbon coating for improved invisibility
  • Extended casting distance
  • Low water absorption for enhanced knot strength
  • Minimal stretch for increased sensitivity

P-Line Fluorocarbon Fishing Line is a popular choice for trout fishing in both rivers and lakes, and in clear and murky water conditions.

When To Use Fluorocarbon Line For Trout Fishing

Fluorocarbon line is an excellent option for trout fishing, particularly in clear water conditions where low visibility is essential. It is more resistant to abrasion compared to other varieties of fishing line, making it a suitable option for fishing in areas with rocks or other obstructions.

Fluorocarbon line is ideal for still fishing with bait or casting spinners and spoons, as its low stretch and high sensitivity allow for better bite detection and hook setting.

Best Braid Fishing Line For Trout

Braid fishing lines, renowned for their resilience, abrasion resistance, and minimal stretch, are a common choice for trout fishing. This segment will evaluate top braid fishing lines for trout and offer advice on the ideal circumstances for using braid line in trout fishing and the necessity of a leader.

When to use braid line for trout fishing depends on the type of trout you are targeting.

Suffix 832 Advanced Braid Fishing Line

Suffix 832 Advanced Braid Fishing Line

Suffix 832 Advanced Fishing Line is a high-performance braid line designed to offer enhanced features for trout fishing, including:

  • Enhanced abrasion resistance and durability
  • Smooth and soft construction for easy handling and casting
  • Increased casting distance
  • High breaking strength
  • Improved abrasion resistance

These features make Suffix 832 an ideal choice for challenging trout fishing environments and suitable for all types of fishing scenarios.

This line is perfect for trout fishing in rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, as its strength and low stretch make it well-suited for casting long distances and handling larger fish.

When To Use Braid Fishing Line For Trout

Wild Brown Trout In A Landing Net

Braided fishing line is recommended for trout fishing in the following situations:

  • When a strong, abrasion-resistant line with low stretch is desired
  • When casting long distances or fishing in areas with heavy vegetation
  • When trolling, vertical jigging, or float fishing for trout

Its high strength and low stretch make it ideal for these fishing techniques.

However, it is important to use a leader with braid fishing line to reduce visibility and increase durability when targeting trout in clear water, as it can significantly improve your ability to catch trout.

Should You Use A Leader With Braid For Trout Fishing?

Using a leader with braid fishing line for trout is highly recommended, as it can provide additional abrasion resistance and reduce the visibility of the line to the fish. A leader also ensures a more reliable connection between the line and the lure, which is especially important when targeting finicky trout.

Fluorocarbon is a popular choice for leader material, due to its strength, abrasion-resistance, and near invisibility in the water. By using a leader with your braid fishing line, you can enhance your trout fishing success and protect your line from damage.

What Pound Test Fishing Line For Trout?

Choosing the right pound test fishing line for trout is critical for success, as it can significantly influence your catch rates. Heavier lines are more noticeable to trout, so it’s important to use the lightest weight line possible that can still accommodate your target fish to avoid alarming them.

Factors such as the size of the water and the size of the trout should be taken into account when selecting the appropriate pound test fishing line for trout.

What Pound Test Fishing Line For Trout In Rivers And Streams?

Releasing a Stocked Rainbow Trout

For trout fishing in rivers and streams, it’s generally recommended to use a lighter line, such as a 4 to 6-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon line. This will allow you to cast small lures and baits more effectively and ensure that your line is less visible to the fish.

In larger rivers, using an 8-pound line may be more appropriate for catching trout, especially when targeting bigger ones.

What Pound Test Fishing Line For Trout In Lakes And Ponds?

In lakes and ponds, an 8-pound line is typically recommended for trout fishing. This heavier line is suitable for casting larger lures and targeting bigger trout in open water.

However, you may need to adjust the pound test depending on the size of the trout you are targeting and the specific conditions of the lake or pond.

What Color Line For Trout Fishing?

Wild Brown Trout Caught And Released

Selecting the right color fishing line for trout is crucial, as it can help to avoid spooking the fish and improve your catch rates. Trout can detect fishing line, so it’s important to choose a color that blends in with the water to minimize the chances of scaring them away. Neutral and natural colors, such as clear, green, and brown, are generally recommended for trout fishing in most situations.

If you can’t find an exact match, clear is usually the best option to ensure your line remains inconspicuous to the fish.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right fishing line for trout fishing is a crucial factor in determining your success on the water. Monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braid lines each offer unique advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for various fishing situations. By considering factors such as castability, sensitivity, abrasion resistance, knot strength, stretch, memory, available colors, and manufacturing quality, you can select the best fishing line to match your needs and improve your catch rates. So gear up, get out there, and start catching more trout with the perfect fishing line for your next angling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mono or fluoro better for trout?

Fluoro can be stiffer at heavier tests, so it may not be the best choice for fishing with floating baits. On the other hand, braided lines are flexible, have good casting distance, but also highly visible in the water. Overall, mono is the most popular and recommended choice for trout fishing.

What lb line to use for rainbow trout?

For rainbow trout, the most common line used is 4-8 pounds of monofilament for still or spinner fishing. For trolling, a 10-15 pound main line and 6-8 pound leader is usually recommended. In larger bodies of water such as ponds and lakes, 8-pound test is preferred, while 4 pounds should be sufficient in mountain streams.

What fishing line for trout and bass?

For trout, a 4- or 6-pound test line is recommended, while bass/walleye/northern pike fishing require an 8-pound test and higher. Monofilament line is the most popular for all three, but braided line is more flexible and allows for more distant casting with small lures. It can also be used to cast unweighted bait such as worms, Powerbait or small minnows.

Is green or clear line better for trout?

Green line is generally the better choice for trout fishing, as it blends into its surroundings and helps keep the line invisible. Clear line may be more visible in very clear water, but green provides good camouflage in most conditions, making it a good choice to catch more fish.

What are the main types of fishing lines for trout?

The three main types of fishing lines for trout are monofilament, fluorocarbon and braid; all offering anglers different levels of flexibility, visibility and durability.

Photo of author

John VanDerLaan

John VanDerLaan is the founder and lead editor at Fisherman's Authority. John is a passionate fisherman whose travels have taken him all over the country in search of different species of gamefish. He has won bass fishing tournaments, including the 1987 Candlewood Classic. He also chases winter steelhead in upstate New York, summer stripers in New England and spends a lot of time fishing the waters of Florida Keys. John is an active member of the Outdoor Writers Association Of America.

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