With the understanding of good basic line strength in hand, think
about the structure where you want to fish. Many sizeable cats,
like Blue Cats and Channel Cats, like deep, fast water, which
often means open rocks below, and long lines out. Here, a wimpy
line will get nicked on an edge, and snap like a Tostito under
pressure, so using braid, or a fluorocarbon monofilament will
yield better results than standard nylon. Fluorocarbon's main
setback, is its lower flexibility than the others, and a higher
cost, but its durability may make it worth the extra investment.
Wood structure, while less likely to break a line directly, can
foul your line, if the current sweeps it into the "woods",
and this may make a really strong braid the best option in these
conditions, as it will withstand the most direct pulling force
of any of the line types, and won't be weakened by a lot of hard
pulls, in an effort to break off the leader, and retrieve the
main line. Abrasion is a big enemy of braid, though, so be sure
to examine the line carefully, if it has been wrapped up and pulled
hard around some structure.
In situations with heavier sinkers, braid has the best qualities,
overall, and, with a spinning rig, makes a great casting line,
in spite of its strength. Combined with a baitcasting reel on
a stout rod, a braid line is a tough one to beat, for chasing
the really heavy fish.
Copolymer is a good cost-alternative to braids or fluorocarbon,
and provides some improvement over nylon monofilament's higher
stretch and lower abrasion tolerance. It is generally a bit thicker
than monofilament, at the same strength rating.
For leaders, a good nylon monofilament is often the best choice,
simply because of its soft feel, light weight and low detectability,
which make it perfect for the business end of the rig. Don't go
too light, though (12 lb. test or so, where decent fish are involved),
or you'll lose too many hard-working cats to justify your fishing
time.
Picking a good line for catfishing is really just a matter of
balancing your gear, your quarry, and your anticipated structure,
to narrow down your best options. A bit more investment in a quality
line may prove to be a good thing, in the long run, when you hook
a real lunker. Experimentation will reveal the best lines for
your personal tastes, equipment and fishing locale.
To get the full "Putting a Line on Cats " article you'll need to download it here.
