Fishing line is a simple device. It connects your reel to the fish you catch so, in theory, if it doesn’t break, you will catch most of what you hook. That theory is sound but it ignores some aspects of fishing line that can help you catch more.

The variety of line to choose from is enormous. From nylon and fluorocarbon monofilament, to gel-spun polyethylene—widely known as ‘braid’—the scope can make things confusing. So how do you choose the best line for your style of fishing? Start by identifying what you’re likely to catch and ask your local tackle store what the average weight of that species is in your area. This will be your guide to what breaking strain will be suitable. Avoid overkill. It may be tempting to cover all bases by using a 50kg line, but heavy lines have disadvantages to consider.

Your next choice will be which material to use. Standard nylon monofilament is a good place for beginners to start—it’s cost effective, plus it’s easy to handle and to tie knots with. Fluorocarbon monofilament is basically the same but it can a bit stiffer and more expensive. It’s only needed as a mainline if you’re fishing crystal clear water.

Braid lines are growing in popularity because they don’t stretch like monofilament and they have a thinner diameter, which means they don’t create as much drag as mono. These properties offer an angler more ‘feel’ and a more direct link with the hook/lure, which is handy when striking to set the hook and for avoiding being stuck on obstacles.

Whatever your choice, remember that thinner lines offer better casting distance, but too thin and you’ll be sacrificing abrasion resistance. Also remember that your line is only as good as your knots.