Understanding Fishing Line: Types, Uses, and Improvised Options

The fishing line is your direct connection between you and the fish. It affects how your bait moves, how sensitive your setup feels, and whether you land your catch or lose it. Choosing the right type of line can make all the difference, whether you’re fishing for fun or survival.

The Main Types of Fishing Line

1. Monofilament (Mono)

A single strand of nylon that’s flexible and inexpensive.
Advantages:

• Easy to tie knots with

• Good stretch for absorbing shocks

• Floats on water—great for topwater lures
  Disadvantages:

• Prone to UV damage over time

• Can hold memory and coil up
  Best Use: General-purpose fishing, beginners, and small freshwater species.

→ Learn more about Fishing 101: Beginner’s Guide

2. Braided Line

Description: Several strands of synthetic fiber woven together for strength.
Advantages:

• High strength-to-diameter ratio

• No stretch—excellent sensitivity

• Lasts longer than mono
  Disadvantages:

• Slippery—can slip in knots

• More visible in clear water

• Can damage rod guides over time
  Best Use: Deep water, heavy cover, or when fishing around thick weeds and structure.

→ See How to Tie a Fishing Hook: The Clinch Knot

3. Fluorocarbon Line

Description: A dense, nearly invisible line made from polyvinylidene fluoride.
Advantages:

• Virtually invisible underwater

• Resistant to UV and abrasion

• Sinks quickly—great for deep water
  Disadvantages:

• Stiffer and more expensive than mono

• Knot strength can be tricky without practice
  Best Use: Clear water, finesse fishing, or anytime stealth matters.

Improvised Fishing Line Options

When you don’t have traditional line available, you can make do with materials around you. Improvised line won’t perform like store-bought gear, but it can still catch fish in a pinch.

1. Paracord Inner Strands
Strip the outer sheath and use the inner filaments. Strong, flexible, and easy to find in most survival kits.

2. Dental Floss
Waxed floss makes a surprisingly durable line for small fish.

3. Sewing Thread or Nylon Cord
Found in repair kits, this works for light-duty fishing. Use short lengths to reduce breakage.

4. Plant Fibers or Bark Strips
Twist or braid strong plant fibers (like nettle or inner bark) into a makeshift cord. Not ideal but effective for survival scenarios.

5. Wire or Cable Strands
For improvised heavy fishing, use carefully to avoid kinks or injury.

6. Plastic Cordage from Bottles

Grim's Cordage Card can make nearly 100 feet of plastic cordage from a trash two liter bottle you can find just about anywhere.

→ Learn more about Grims Cordage Making Card

Matching Line to Conditions

FAQ: Fishing Line Basics

Q: What fishing line should beginners start with?
A: Monofilament is the easiest to handle, tie, and cast perfect for learning.

Q: Can I use the same line for freshwater and saltwater?
A: Yes, but rinse it after saltwater use to prevent corrosion and wear.

Q: How often should I replace fishing line?
A: Replace mono every season, fluorocarbon every year or two, and braided line as needed.

Q: What’s the best improvised fishing line?
A: Paracord inner strands—they’re durable, versatile, and already in many survival kits.

About Grim Workshop

At Grim Workshop, we believe real preparedness means having the skills and the tools to use them. Our compact, reusable gear is designed for Everyday Readiness—helping you build, repair, and catch what you need anywhere.

→ Explore our Fishing Tools Collection for compact, reusable gear.
→ Visit our Skill Guides to learn how to fish, tie knots, and build improvised tools.