Reliability from our tackle is a priceless commodity on the water. Whether it’s our lures, our reels, or our line, there’s a lot to be said about the peace of mind that comes with confidence in the gear we use. The last thing most of us want to worry about while fishing is a bass breaking off due to inferior line or knot strength, which is why today I’ve provided you with a test to ensure your line is strong enough to handle a big fight before hitting the water.
One way to ensure the strength of your line is to put it through a line vs. line test, which will determine which line is stronger. They can be lines of different brands, different lines of the same brand, and even altogether different types of lines. To set up the test, cut off a twelve-inch length of each of the two different lines to be tested. Make sure to use the same knot throughout the test to ensure consistency. Tie one end of each line to a different hook and tie the other end of each line to a different end of a box-end wrench.
Place one hook around a stationary object and place the other hook through the enclosed opening of the box-end wrench. Pull gently on the handle of the box-end wrench, slowly increasing pressure on the lines until one line breaks, which will reveal the weaker line. I suggest repeating the test three times to account for any possibility of poor knot tying.
It helps to color code each line with a different marker for easy identification after it breaks. Also, line snaps like a bull whip when it breaks, so to prevent any possible injury, wear safety glasses and gloves. I’d also suggest recording the results for future reference.
It can be easy to be fooled by the promises of manufacturers or pretty packaging on a spool of fishing line, but when push comes to shove on the water, all the marketing and shiny packaging won’t matter. If you really want to find out if a particular line can handle the demands of fishing for bass, redfish, or any other big fish, test it using the technique outlined above and you’ll find the answer real quick.
