If you are wanting to learn how to become a better swimbait angler than understanding the different categories of swimbaits, when to use which and what equipment to use is essential.
Selecting the right line type and size for the different swimbait fishing applications can be a huge advantage. The right line will allow to easily set the hook on big fish and keep them pegged until you can get them in the boat.
So, what is the best line to use for swimbaits? The best line to use when fishing with a swimbait is straight fluorocarbon (15-30lb) or braid (20-65lb) as the main line with a monofilament (20-35lb) leader. These line combinations will allow you to easily use heavy swimbaits and catch big fish.
However, there are several factors to consider when selecting the right line type and size when it comes to fishing a swimbait. In this swimbait line guide, we will discuss the type of lines, sizes and when to use which depending on the different size and styles of swimbaits.
What Line to Use for Swimbaits
Just like anything having the right tools and gear for the task at hand is key. Using the right line while throwing a swimbait will ensure you don’t break off, lose your expensive baits and will allow you to better fight and land those big fish.
When deciding on what line to use you need to think about the size of swimbaits you are going to be throwing. This will help you determine the type and size of line that would best fit your lure selection.
There are three main line categories you should consider when fishing with a swimbait. Here is how I break down and use each one.
Fluorocarbon
Fluorocarbon is a low visibility line that has low stretch and is a great option when throwing both big and small swimbaits. It’s also super sensitive allowing you to easily detect those key bites.
If you are going to use fluorocarbon its best to use straight fluorocarbon when throwing swimbaits. In my experience fluro isn’t a great leader when paired with braid. I like to use 15 – 30lb test for bigger swimbaits and will power down to 8 to 12lb test for smaller more finesse swimbaits.
Braid
Braided fishing line offers the most strength with the least amount of stretch. It’s also the smallest in diameter. However, the big downside to braid is you sacrifice visibility. It’s made of woven fibers that make it more visible in the water. Braid will also float.
When throwing big swimbaits, I like to use (20-30lb) braid as my main line and (20-30lb) monofilament as the leader. This combination gives you low stretch, sensitivity and strength while combining the low visibility and forgiveness of monofilament.
Monofilament
Monofilament line is the most affordable of the three line options and is widely use. Many anglers will use straight monofilament on their swimbait setups. However, I don’t recommend going this route.
In my experience monofilament is best used as a leader with braid as the main line. If you use straight monofilament, you’ll have a hard time detecting bites, your hooksets will be delayed and you’ll end up losing a lot more fish.
Here is a simple guide that I have put together to help you pick the right line for your swimbait setup.
Swimbait Line Guide
| Bait | Line Size | Line Type |
| Big Swimbaits (8-12 inch) | 30lb | Fluorocarbon |
| Big Swimbaits (8-12 inch) | 30-65lb, 30-35lb | Braid + Mono Leader |
| Swimbaits (6-8 inch) | 25lb | Fluorocarbon |
| Swimbaits (6-8 inch) | 25lb & 25lb | Braid + Mono Leader |
| Small Swimbaits (4-6 inch) | 15-20lb | Fluorocarbon |
| Small Swimbaits (4-6 inch) | 20lb & 20lb | Braid + Mono Leader |
There is some debate among anglers whether which line is best to use for swimbaits. Many anglers feel that straight monofilament is the best choice due to its ability to stretch providing a cushion against breakoffs.
However, I recommend using either straight fluorocarbon or braid as your main line with a monofilament leader. I believe these two combinations give you the best chance to hook and land big fish on a swimbait.
Keep in mind that each angler may have a different opinion and like to use heavier or lighter lines. Use this as a starting point and adapt your line to the baits you throw and the caliber of fish you are targeting.
Now let’s look at the best specific lines to use.
Best Lines for Swimbaits
Now days there are a lot of different companies that make quality fishing line. Here is a list of the brands and lines that I have the most confidence when throwing a swimbait.
Fluerocarbon
Braid
Leader
Best Line for Big Swimbaits
If you are throwing a giant swimbait, you are typically targeting the biggest fish in the lake. In these situations, you’ll want to use a heavy duty line that can handle both casting your big swimbaits as well as handling those giant fish.
The best line to use for big swimbaits is 25-30lb straight fluorocarbon or 25-80lb braid with a monofilament leader.
Best Line for Small Swimbaits
For finesses swimbaits the best line to use is going to be straight fluorocarbon. If you are throwing finesse swimbaits than most likely you are fishing in clear water.
For this reason, line with low visibility that is sensitive and has low stretch is key. In these situations, the best line to use is going to be 6-8lb fluorocarbon.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right line category, size and combination for the differently types of swimbaits is critical. Having the right line will allow you detect subtle bites and easily set the hook on even the longest cast.
Before making any line decisions for your swimbaits feel free to come back to this article and use it as a resource to ensure you get the right line for your specific fishing needs.