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Braided fishing line needs to make it into your fishing arsenal 🎣
Why fisherman in Texas are getting fined for using drones 💰
How to fillet a shark from nose to tail 🐟

The Braid Revolution: Why Anglers Are Making the Switch

For decades, monofilament was the undisputed king of the tackle box. But look at any professional circuit or local honey hole today, and you’ll see a distinct shift. Braided fishing line is rapidly becoming the gold standard for modern anglers, and for several very good reasons.

The primary driver behind this "braid revolution" is the incredible strength-to-diameter ratio. Because braid is constructed from woven fibers like Spectra or Dyneema, it is significantly thinner than monofilament of the same pound test. This allows for much longer casts and lets you fit more line on your spool.

Furthermore, braid has near-zero stretch. When a fish taps your lure in deep water, you feel it instantly. This sensitivity leads to better hook sets and a more tactile connection to your bait. Unlike mono, which can degrade quickly under UV light, braid is incredibly durable and can often stay on a reel for multiple seasons without losing its integrity.

Pro Tips for Mastering Braid

Transitioning to braid requires a few technical adjustments to ensure peak performance:

The Tape Trick: Braid is slick and can "spin" on a metal spool. Before winding new line on a reel, wrap a single layer of electrical tape around the center of the spool. This gives the line something to "bite" into, preventing the entire knot from slipping under pressure.
The Fluorocarbon Leader: While braid is strong, it is highly visible underwater and has poor abrasion resistance against rocks. Always tie on a fluorocarbon leader (usually 18 to 36 inches). Fluorocarbon is nearly invisible to fish and provides the "stealth" and durability that braid lacks.
Use the Right Tools: Traditional nail clippers won't cut it. Always carry a pair of dedicated braid scissors or a sharp serrated blade to avoid frayed ends.
Check Your Knots: Braid is slippery. Stick to knots like the Palomar or Double Uni to ensure your connection doesn't unravel during a heavy fight.

🎣 IN THE FIELD

Texas anglers using drones to cast their lines hundreds of yards out have hit a snag: the federal government considers drone bait-dropping an illegal airborne deployment under a decades-old law. Despite arguments that the technology is safer and the law is outdated, fishermen will need to keep their reels grounded for now, or risk a fine for high-flying innovation.
The International Fly Fishing Film Festival is casting its line back into Bend, Oregon's Tower Theatre on January 10th, showcasing a curated selection of stunning films that capture the global adventure and culture of the sport. Beyond the breathtaking cinematography, the event offers local anglers a chance to connect at a pre-show social and support vital conservation efforts, as all proceeds benefit local groups like Trout Unlimited.
How to tie the Palomar knot with braided line: