ASK THE EXPERTS

Dear Panel,

What is your favourite main line for distance work? And what is your favourite main line for fishing in weed? I have been using Big Game for both, but I can’t get on with it as I find it too stretchy. Can you please help?

Gary Legge - London

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Hi Gary,

Long-range Fishing
There are a many factors that affect distance casting, probably the main one being the diameter and composition of the main line. My preferred choice for fishing maximum range is Soft Steel. It casts very well, it has a good breaking strain-to-diameter ratio, and is very supple, which aids a smooth flow of the spool and through the rings, consequently reducing the chances of a crack-off through the line wrapping on the guides.

A good casting line is essential when hitting those extreme range marks

The breaking strain is selected to suit the situation; on relatively weed- and snag-free lakes, where casting over 140yds will be an advantage, I tend to drop down to 8lb with a tapered leader, a 4-5oz lead, and safe lead release system. If, however, the venue contains a little weed then I will increase the breaking strain to suit.

Small bag at extreme range led to the downfall of this beauty

Weed/Snag Fishing
When fishing in weed, over bars, or in a snaggy environment, I prefer a 15-18lb fast-sinking, low visibility line with minimal stretch. There are several suitable versions on the market with my choice being either Fox Illusion, X Line, or P Line. I prefer these in weed due to their density and low-viz properties; they sink fast, lying on, or just beneath, the tops of the strands, thereby helping to hide the line from view. They have less stretch than standard monos thus increasing sensitivity and weed-shearing properties and helping to maintain direct contact with the carp.

Soft Steel, also available in camo!

Hope this helps.

Rod