If you buy via a link on this page, we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you.Learn more
Spinning reels are one of the most common types of reels. They also offer a shorter learning curve than their counterparts. However, while learning to use a spinning reel may be relatively simple, discerning which fishing lines work best for your specific needs when using a spinning reel can feel more intimidating.
What are the best fishing lines for spinning reels? The best spinning reels are measured by material, breaking strength, thickness, and price. In addition, an angler’s individual is a factor in defining the best. We used these qualities to narrow down to the 10 best fishing lines.
While there is no perfect brand or perfect style of fishing line for a spinning reel, by being introduced to these highly-rated fishing lines, you are more likely to accurately assess your needs and find the best fit for you. Be sure to keep in mind the species of fish you’ll be looking to catch, as well as what kind of tackle you’ll be using so that you match the line to the tackle.
Let’s get started.
Our Best Fishing Line for Spinning Reels
- Power Pro Fiber Line (The Best Overall Braided Fishing Line)
- KastKing’s Premium Monofilament Fishing Line (The Best Line for the Price)
- Berkley Trilene Big Game Spool (The Best Monofilament Line)
- Spider Wire Super Fishing Line (The Best Line Made of Teflon)
- Piscifun Braided Super Strong Fish Line (The Best Line For Versatility)
- Berkley Triline XL (6-pound) Fishing Line (The Best Line for a Smooth, Easy Cast)
- Stren Original Monofilament Spool (Best Monofilament Line for Strength)
- Sufix 832 Braided Super Line (The Best Braided Line, For Strength)
- Yo-Zuri Hybrid 600-yard Fish Spool (The Best Hybrid Fishing Line for Spinning Reels)
- Sunline Super Fluorocarbon Fish Line (The Best Fluorocarbon Fishing Line for Spinning Reels)
Our Reviews: The 10 Best Fishing Lines for Spinning Reels
Power Pro Fiber Line
The Best Overall Braided Fishing Line
- Spool directly from the box
- Built-in cutter
- Package protects the remaining line
PowerPro has released yet another stellar product, this time a heavy-duty, incredibly strong braided fishing line, perfect for your spinning reel. Not only does this line come highly recommended, but it is great for both saltwater and freshwater use. If you don’t mind paying a pretty penny for a line, this line will more than get the job done.
PROS
- Long-Time Trusted Brand – PowerPro is a reliable brand with excellent customer service, and its products are always high-rated.
- Extremely Strong – this line is made to hook large fish without breaking, and it does a mighty fine job of it. Its braided Spectra fiber has been fortified and treated to enhance the integrity of the line and to round out the smoothness and shape.
- Sensitivity – While this braided strong, it is thin and light, which makes it impossible to miss even the slightest of bites on the line.
- Different Length Options – We’re talking anywhere from 150 yards to 3000 yards.
- American Made – This isn’t a priority for everybody, but for some, products made in the U.S.A. are an added bonus.
- Easy to Cast – it’s lightweight, the thin line makes the act of casting feel truly effortless.
CONS
- Price – If you aren’t out there trying to fish long (say 1500 yards) and you aren’t hoping to catch a 150-pound Marlon, then maybe the price won’t hit you so hard. But if you are planning to do an extreme, weight-intensive fish, then you’ll be slammed with this $400+ price. However, you might argue the quality and strength are more than worth it.
KastKing’s Premium Monofilament Fishing Line
The Best Line for the Price
- LOW MEMORY – KastKing mono is made with...
- ABRASION RESISTANT – You can now take on a good...
- SUPERIOR CLARITY PLUS COLORS – Rest assure that...
A very popular style of fishing line, the monofilament, has met a new level of durability in this KastKing’s premium fishing line. It is silky smooth, beautifully rounded, and ensures a very easy and long cast. It is easy on the wallet, but without sacrificing quality.
PROS
- Paralleled Rock Track – this technology ensures that the line won’t disappear into the spool, and it is easy on spool memory
- Easy to Operate – This monofilament line is lithe and agile, making it exceptionally easy to tie knots. It’s perfectly round, making it mellifluous, meaning you can guarantee easy, super-long casting.
- Versatile – this line is capable of catching crappie fish, bass, trout, etc. It’s great in both fresh and seawater.
- Abrasion Resistant – when fishing with this line, you don’t need to worry about fishing in murky waters (unsure what foreign objects could rub against your line) as this monofilament has superior abrasion-resistant technology.
- Super Hydrophilic – thanks to its thin diameter, this thin monoline cuts through water fast. Super important when doing long-distance casting.
CONS
- Not Meant for Heavy Catch – The only real downside to this otherwise very lightweight, yet hearty line, is that it is limited in its catch abilities. While customers reported being able to catch up to twelve pounds on the ten-pound mono line, you won’t have much luck catching your real big catch (no giant tuna for you!)
Berkley Trilene Big Game Spool
The Best Monofilament Line
- BERKLEY TRILENE BIG GAME: Don't let fish off the...
- EXTREME FIGHTING POWER: This mono fishing line...
- HIGH STRENGTH PER DIAMETER MONOFILAMENT FISHING...
Berkley is another reliable brand known for its remarkable craftsmanship. When in doubt, you can rest assured most lines from this brand are going to be some of the best there is. This line combines the trademark Berkley excellency combined with the technology that makes monofilament lines the most popularly used. For this reason, the Berkley Trilene Big Game Fishing Line ranks as the best monofilament line for spinning reels available, especially when looking to catch big game fish.
PROS
- Ultra-Smooth – Perhaps the most immediately noticeable feature of this big game mono line is its silky smoothness, which ensures that you can cast, literally, miles. Its ultra-smooth, super-round fibers also help to resist twists and succumb to knots better.
- Super Strong – While it’s indicative of a monoline to be strong, this particular line is designed to be even stronger than its normal counterparts. We’re talking more control, dependability, and the adaptability required to wrangle superior fish. You’ll notice how much stretch it affords, and how well it absorbs the shock that occurs when fighting massive-sized specimens.
- Shock & Abrasion Resistant – As I mentioned above, this line is incredibly shock resistant, and its superior-strong design means that it will resist damage that could occur due to exposure to jagged or irregular objects.
- Fresh & Saltwater Capable – You can use this line to chase after bluefish, salmon, bass, steelhead, etc. Great in both fresh water and saltwater.
- Relatively Inexpensive – One of the most exciting things about this line is how budget-friendly it is considering you are getting a super sturdy product. You can get a huge amount of line for pretty inexpensive.
CONS
- Somewhat Excessive Memory – Unfortunately, there is a downside to this otherwise exceptional line, and that is that your Berkley big catch mono line has less excessive memory than the standard monofilament line. This means, when you leave it in the coiled shape in your spinning reel spool for long periods of time, it can start to wear on the castability of the line. This is obviously really important, and it means that this line is a little more high-maintenance since you’ll want to use it consistently so it doesn’t hold the shape of the coil, or you may have to find a way to store it in an un-coiled position (which sounds annoying to have to think about.)
Spider Wire Super Fishing Line
The Best Line Made of Teflon
- SPIDERWIRE STEALTH BRAID: Boasting a versatile...
- NOTHING GETS AWAY: Don't let fish off the hook....
- HIGH STRENGTH PER DIAMETER BRAIDED FISHING LINE:...
We’re coming at you with yet another superior and reputable brand, especially notable when it comes to braided lines. SpiderWire has formulated a stealth super line that is particularly strong and ultra-smooth, providing you with an incredibly accurate cast, capable of long distances. If long casts are important to you, this is the reel for you!
PROS
- Super Thin – This line has a super thin diameter, which means you can fit even more onto your reel than the average line. It also means you can bank on smooth, effortless casts for miles. You can guarantee you’ll have an easy and fun experience, bereft of those often irritating recoils.
- Strength – The Teflon-treated microfibers make this braided line mega-strong. It exceeds in fishing in heavy cover and has the necessary power required to catch large fish species. Good for up to 30-50 pounds (up to 1500 yards).
- Sensitivity – While this is typical of most braided lines, it is nonetheless true for this one, the braided design means you can feel everything, even the smallest of bites of the very tip of the line. Its anti-stretch technology also ensures a more sensitive feel.
- Anti-Color Fading – Extra coats have been added to this line to help prevent color fading.
CONS
- Some Memory – Only downside to this line is that it can be somewhat prone to twists and kinks in the line.
Piscifun Braided Super Strong Fish Line
The Best Line For Versatility
- Superior Abrasion Resistance and Durable - Powered...
- Strong Knot Strength - Unmatched strength fiber...
- Faster Cutting Water - Unparalleled smoothness and...
This Piscifun braided line was created to reduce the frustration of using anglers with a spinning reel. It is superior in power, sturdiness, silkiness, casting distance, knot tying, and abrasion resistance (oh, is that all??) No, that’s not all! This is also one of the most versatile lines you can find on the market (coming in a wide selection of colors, strengths, and lengths.)
PROS
- Versatility – Unlike some braided lines, this particular PisciFun line comes in a cornucopia of colors, flexible strength, and lengths to suit any kind of fishing condition (whether that’s freshwater, seawater, or ice water) and whether you are hoping to catch bluefish, trout, bass, walleye, musky, crappie, kingfish, etc.
- Strength – Thanks to its polyethylene fibers and superior braiding techniques, this line has the supreme amount of strength (ranging from 10 pounds all the way to 150). The level of weight naturally determines the number of braid strands (ranging anywhere from 4 strands to 8 strands of braids.)
- Lightweight – Not taking away from its strength, this line is very thin, meaning its smaller profile and diameter create smooth, rounded lines, which means an easier cast (no backlash). It is liable to travel faster through the water, and it is exceptionally easy to tie knots.
- Durability – the braided line has been coated with a new kind of epoxy technology, which makes this line abrasion-resistant as well as makes it more difficult for fish to fall off the line.
- Low Memory – This means your line isn’t going to stay coiled in its position of your spinning reel
CONS
- Color Fading – This line doesn’t have extra coats of resin to protect the line from the sun’s harsh UV rays, so it is liable to experience some color fading.
Berkley Triline XL (6-pound) Fishing Line
The Best Line for a Smooth, Easy Cast
- BERKLEY TRILENE XL: Don't let fish off the hook....
- MAXIMUM MANAGEABILITY: This mono fishing line...
- HIGH STRENGTH PER DIAMETER MONOFILAMENT FISHING...
Berkley knocks it out of the park yet again with this monofilament line that is superior in the smoothest, easiest casting you’re likely to find on a spinning reel. Incredibly durable and strong, it also exhibits high levels of sensitivity, making your fishing experience very easy. Good for fresh and saltwater.
PROS
- Silky Smooth – this is hands down, the best feature of this mono line. It is incredibly smooth, meaning it will launch effortlessly and will go far with zero strain. It knots very easily, as well.
- Strength – This tough line allows you more control when chasing after large catches in murkier cover. It’s also quite abrasion-resistant.
- Low Memory – When I say low, I mean barely existent, meaning you can avoid those twists and kinks that make for difficult casting.
CONS
- Color Fading – This line, while not necessarily ‘prone’ to fade, does not have the extra coats or technology one might desire to further prevent color fading from occurring.
- Short Life Span – Unfortunately, a few customer reviews did report having to replace this line soon after use, which is not ideal, especially if you purchase a lot of lines (you don’t want to be out $185 dollars for a one-use line).
Stren Original Monofilament Spool
Best Monofilament Line for Strength
- STREN FLUOROCAST: Boasting the perfect balance of...
- DEPENDABLE AND VERSATILE: This heavy duty fishing...
- HIGH STRENGTH PER DIAMETER MONOFILAMENT FISHING...
What sets this Stren original monoline apart from its competition is its sheer strength. It is durable, abrasion-resistant, it’s easy to tie knots, and has a small memory. You can look forward to easy casts, and thanks to this line’s unique UV coating, you don’t have to worry as much about color fading.
PROS
- Strength – one of the toughest monofilament lines on the market, this Stren spool is fully equipped to fight and catch large fishing species. It is also fairly abrasion-resistant.
- Anti-Color Fading – to combat the color-affecting exposure to the sun’s rays, this Stren line is superior in fighting off-color fading, meaning it is a monoline more likely to last longer than others.
- Reduced Memory – you can look forward to easy casts, free of line twists and kinks.
CONS
- Versatility – Where this line is found lacking is that it is not particularly versatile.
Sufix 832 Braided Super Line
The Best Braided Line, For Strength
- 8 Fibers (Featuring one GORE Performance Fiber and...
- Ultimate Abrasion Resistance
- Unbeatable Strength
This Sufix line is called the “super line” for a reason. It is truly one of the top braided fishing lines for spinning reels thanks to its unparalleled strength, anti-color fade properties, and easy castability. It’s hard to top when you consider the high quality matched with its reasonable pricing.
PROS
- Strength & Durability – This line can hold anywhere from 6 lbs to 80 lbs! Its irregular strength comes from its clever construction (it is formed using eight different fibers: one singly GORE fiber that is abrasion and vibration resistant, and seven Dyneema fibers, to give the line its strength and ultra-sensitivity. It is a braided line you can rely on when fishing in waters near rocks and other abrasive objects.
- Smooth – This line is smooth as butter, thanks to the R8 braiding technology suffix invested in. It skates through the water with shocking ease.
- Long-Lasting – You can guarantee the use of this line for anywhere from 2-3 years (which is incredible).
CONS
- Color Fading – This is another line where you can expect some color fading, due to its lack of UV protection.
Yo-Zuri Hybrid 600-yard Fish Spool
The Best Hybrid Fishing Line for Spinning Reels
- Package length: 7.112 cm
- Package width: 8.128 cm
- Package height: 34.798 cm
This Yo-Zuri line is hands down the best hybrid fishing line for a spinning reel. It has the nylon monofilament aspect, paired with the fluorocarbon fibers. This mashup gives the Yo-Zuri fishing line the top-notch abrasion-resistant and sensitivity levels of the fluorocarbon fibers while enjoying the flex of the nylon material.
PROS
- Strength – The hybrid line makes for a strong and durable line. It has minimal stretch and high levels of sensitivity, and its knot strength is unreal. All and all, this makes for a pretty exceptional spinning reel line. While you won’t get to catch super large fish, this line can carry anywhere from 6-40 pounds.
- Neutrally buoyant – That might not even be high on your list of priorities; however, a perk of this hybrid line is that it will not absorb water or sink. Making this line is excellent for crankbaits, chatter baits, spinner baits, and top water lures.
CONS
- Not For Deep Fishing – due to its high level of buoyancy, this particular line will not work in deeper fishing conditions (as the line is made to float near the top of the water.)
- High Level of Memory – The other downside to this hybrid line is the high level of memory the line has, which can lead to twists and kinks in your line, making for an annoying casting experience.
Sunline Super Fluorocarbon Fish Line
The Best Fluorocarbon Fishing Line for Spinning Reels
- Extreme abrasion resistance
- Excellent for heavy cover applications
- Uniform line diameter
Many people have been switching from monolines to fluorocarbon lines due to their improved properties as of late. It is incredible durability and is ideal for a spinning reel. This particular Sunline Super Fluoro line is without a doubt the best Fluorocarbon fishing line for your spinning reel.
PROS
- Super Smooth – due to its triple resin coating, this 100% fluorocarbon line is so soft and supple that you’ll want to rub it all over your face. It is easy to use, and typing knots feels effortless.
- Abrasion Resistant – This is one sturdy line that is ideal for heavy cover fishing so that you don’t have to stress about this line being sawed in half but jagged rocks or other risky objects.
CONS
- Price Point – Unfortunately, fluorocarbon lines are rarer than monofilament lines, and thus can run expensive. However, the upside to this is that they are such high-quality lines, that they were arguably worth the money.
- Twist & Kinks Prone – Since this line is very firm, its lack of giving can sometimes lend itself to unwanted twists in the line. You can hopefully avoid this by stretching the line out or using a good quality conditioner to better train it.
Best Fishing Line for Spinning Reels: Things To Consider
Line diameter, type, and test strength have an impact on reel performance. For instance, thicker lines take more space, which means fewer yards on the spool.
But you have a stronger line. It all comes down to the reel size and fish you are after. We will take some time to talk about each feature, and its influence and answer a couple of common questions that you might have. Let’s get started.
Fishing Line Types
Let’s first learn the differences between each fishing line type, its pros, and cons, and when you should use each one. Then, we will discuss all the common features. Let’s start with monofilament.
Monofilament Line
It is arguably the most common fishing line type. You can use it for a wide range of applications ranging from finesse fishing to trolling. Plus, it is the starting point for most anglers.
Monofilament lines are not as visible as braid lines. Their flexibility comes in handy for tying knots and manipulating the line. However, it takes a toll on sensitivity. Since monofilament stretches more than any other line type, you lose a lot of sensitivity. It might be a problem if you are after weary fish such as trout. However, that stretch factor helps to prevent the hook from tearing the fish’s mouth. That’s why monofilament is ideal for small fishes.
Mono comes in all sorts of colors, which is also a big plus. And, it is also the cheapest kind of fishing line. Nevertheless, it has the highest memory line and the lowest abrasion resistance. You have to change the line often to discard eroded sections and line twists.
Pros:
- Cheap
- Good for topwater lures
- Great for knots
Cons:
- Not suitable for crankbaits
- Less sensitive
- Low abrasion resistance
Fluorocarbon Fishing Lines
Fluorocarbon fishing lines are commonly more expensive than any other fishing line. However, they are virtually invisible once they hit the water. Fluorocarbon lines are the prime choice when it comes to stealth.
Apart from the price, fluorocarbon fishing lines are stiffer than monofilament, have some memorable lines, and are thicker than braid. As a result, tying knots is more complicated than mono, and casting is not as good as braid lines.
Fluorocarbon gives a higher degree of sensitivity than mono. But not as good as braids. It also sinks faster, making it perfect for crankbaits and fast-sinking lures. Plus, it is more resistant to abrasion than monofilament fishing lines.
Most anglers use fluorocarbon as leader material. This way, they can enjoy all the benefits without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Nearly invisible
- Good sensitivity
- Less memory line than mono
- Good hooksets
- Decent abrasion resistance
Cons:
- Price
- Poor casting
- Not suitable for topwater lures
Braided Fishing Lines
Braided fishing lines have the lowest diameter-to-strength ratio. Thus, allowing you to spool more into the reel. This also helps with friction reduction; thereby, increasing the casting range.
Braid lines don’t stretch as much as other fishing lines, making them the most sensitive of all. Additionally, they show excellent abrasion resistance and low-line memory. While suffering no stretch is an advantage, it also makes the line prone to bird nests.
Most anglers use braid when fishing on heavily covered waters. Plus, it is an ideal choice for finesse setups. Nevertheless, braid lines are highly visible. That’s why many anglers add a couple of inches of fluorocarbon as a leader. Furthermore, the braid is difficult to handle. Tying knots is a nightmare for the inexperienced.
Pros:
- Strong and thin
- Ideal for long casts
- Allows to spool more line into the reel
Cons:
- Visible
- It is hard to tie knots with it
- Prone to bird nest
Line Diameter and Test Strength
Line diameter and test strength always come together. Thicker lines have a higher test strength. In other words, they can withstand more tension before breaking.
However, thicker lines take up more space. Thus, increasing friction and reducing the number of yards the reel can hold.
Fishing Line Color
Fluorocarbon only comes in clear color. Things are different with mono and braid. Both are available in several colors, which are suitable for a wide range of scenarios. Remember that you should always try to blend the line with the background. In other words, match the color of the water and forage. For example, use greenish fishing lines when fishing in green-colored waters. On the other hand, clear colors come in handy when fishing on crystal-clear lakes and rivers.
FAQs
What Size Line for A Spinning Reel?
It depends. Most spinning reels are compatible with different line sizes. Make sure to check the reel’s body. There you should find an engraving showing the compatible line test strengths.
How Much Fishing Line Should I Spool in the Reel?
Again, check the reel’s body. That same engraving we talked about before shows how many yards you can spool into it. Try your best not to put more, as it will temper with casting.
How to Put Line on a Spinning Reel?
It takes some time to do it right the first time, especially if you don’t have the right tools. But don’t worry. We’ve built a guide showing you the step-by-step process. You can check it out here.
What is Line Memory?
You’ve read this term a lot of times. But what does it mean? Line memory refers to the ability of the fishing line to acquire the shape of the object it is wrapped in. In this case, the spool. This means that it will retain the spool shape even after taking the line out of the reel. It might not look like a big deal. But it is.
Line memory reduces casting distance because the coils hit the line guides as it passes through them. The coils also make the line more likely to get tangled.
As we said before, monofilament has the highest line memory, followed by fluorocarbon and then braid.
Can You Put a Braided Line On A Spinning Reel?
Yes, of course. But there is a catch, though. Some spinning reels aren’t braid-ready, which means that you have to spool some mono first as backing. Some others already come with a plastic lining that serves as backing. In other words, you can spool braid fishing line directly into the spool with these.
What Type of Line is Best for Spinning Reels?
It depends. Braid fishing lines are favored because they take less space, you can spool more yards into the reel, are stronger, and are easier to cast. However, it is a little tricky to use. If you are planning on using a braid, we recommend adding some fluorocarbon at the end.
Nevertheless, monofilament is not a bad option either, especially for beginners. Mono also gives a more stealthy approach than braid. So, both are great options.
Key Take Away?
Fortunately, there are a plethora of excellent fishing lines for spinning reels today, and now you are educated in the top 10 of these. Whether you prefer a monofilament line, a braided line, a fluorocarbon, or even a hybrid, you can rest assured that whatever your fishing needs are, there is a line for that. Be sure to pay attention to the amount of weight any given line can manage, as well as what the memory on each line is (as it’s ideal to avoid high memory lines, so as to not have to stress over twists and kinks down the road.)
