There are many different types of salmon, and multiple techniques that can be used to catch them. There is no one good answer for the best fishing line to catch salmon, but I’m making this guide to at least help you choose you a line that will work in most situations.
Before you go out, I recommend confirming with your guide or local anglers to make sure you are set up right for the salmon in your area.
Quick Look
- 20 to 30 lb. Test
- Best: Monofilament
- Good: 45 to 65 lb. Test Braid
- Leader: 20 to 30 lb. Test Monofilament
Monofilament Fishing Line For Salmon
Monofilament is the most popular fishing line for salmon fishing. It has a lot of stretch which helps to keep the line tight and the hook in the salmon’s mouth.
This can be especially helpful for less experienced anglers, as it allows for some mistakes while fighting the fish. It is very forgiving compared to braid.
Fortunately, monofilament is also the cheapest option for fishing line.
What lb. Test Fishing Line For Salmon?
20 to 30 lb. test monofilament is very popular amongst salmon anglers. Recently some anglers have been switching to braid in the 45 to 65 lb. test range. But braid takes a little more skill to use.
What Leader Material For Salmon?
20 to 30 lb. test monofilament is the best leader material for salmon fishing. If you are using a braided main line, then a mono leader/bumper is very important. Mono stretches and helps to hold the hook in the fish’s mouth.
Another reason why monofilament leaders are important is for the more obvious reason which is that it is less visible than braid.
Salmon aren’t generally line shy, but if they have been under a lot of angling pressure, having a clear leader can definitely help.
Is Braid Good For Catching Salmon?
Many salmon anglers have been switching to braided fishing lines. These lines are much more sensitive, float when bobber fishing, and cut through the water when trolling. However, they aren’t the best for fighting fish.
One of the favorite uses for braid in the salmon world is when bobber fishing. When you are bobber fishing in a river, you have to constantly mend your line to keep it somewhat straight so your bait drifts naturally.
Since braid floats and comes in bright colors, it is easy to see on the surface of the water and therefore keep up with the mending.
Another benefit of braid is that it doesn’t stretch. This is also good for bobber fishing, because when your bobber goes down, you need to be able to pick the line up fast and make solid contact for a hookset.
The downside to braid is that it can make things a little more tricky when reeling in a salmon. Since there is no stretch, you don’t have a cushion for error.
You need to make sure you always keep the right amount of pressure on the fish. Not too much, and not too little. Make sure your drag is set a little loose so if the fish makes a run, it doesn’t pull the hook out.
A flexible rod can also help to keep pressure on the line when the salmon shakes and rolls.
Is Fluorocarbon Good For Catching Salmon?
Fluorocarbon fishing line is about equally as good as monofilament for salmon fishing. It has some stretch to it, and is almost invisible under water. However, it is much more expensive so almost all salmon anglers prefer mono over fluorocarbon.
