Line polymer: PE, fluorocarbon, nylon, ester

Also known as: Line material

UHMWPE braid (PE)

Traits

  • SG 0.97 floats; 1-3% stretch
  • Thinnest per strength
  • Opaque — needs a leader

Best for

  • Main line for nearly everything

Trade-offs

  • Tied direct in clear water

Fluorocarbon (PVDF)

Traits

  • SG 1.78 sinks fast; RI 1.42 (water 1.33)
  • High modulus — feels low-stretch
  • Weak knots, memory

Best for

  • Leaders; casting-gear main line for bottom and hardbaits

Trade-offs

  • Topwater; spinning above 10 lb

Nylon (PA)

Traits

  • SG 1.14; 20-30% stretch
  • Best knots; absorbs water; RI 1.53

Best for

  • Topwater on trebles; backing

Trade-offs

  • Any finesse or bottom-contact rig

Polyester mono (ester)

Traits

  • SG 1.38 sinks; 5-8% stretch
  • Brittle on shock

Best for

  • Ultralight 1-4 lb finesse with a leader

Trade-offs

  • Anything over 4 lb; hard hooksets

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