Is there a use for Mono?

By Ian

​ With the advert of superlines such as fluorocarbon (fluoro for short) or braid, monofilament line (mono for short) is pretty much put in the bad seat. It doesn't have the invisibility of fluoro, nor the strength of braid. It's also not as durable as the other two, either. It's heyday on the tournament trail seem to be over; the pros only seem to use mono on topwater baits because it floats. But is there another practical use for mono?

Above: Is good old mono extinct with the advert of fluoro and braid?

  Mono is a very good "all-around" line. While fluoro and braid have their advantages, they also have their drawbacks. Fluoro can be stiff and hard to handle; good fluoro also costs a lot. Braid is very visible underwater, and can spook fish easily, especially on highly pressured town lakes. Braid also is easily "cut" on sharp structure, such as rock, and can damage the guides of old rods. There are a bunch of smaller drawbacks to both I won't mention. Both also aren't nearly as cheap as mono.

Mono for one, is cheap. Good mono, which easily can be had for cheap on bulk spools, or even smaller spools, is easily produced and is founded everywhere. Price may be a factor if you are fishing around cover; your line can be nicked, and thus you need to replace it regularly to prevent the loss of that 5 lb from straining weak line. 

Mono also isn't as visible as braid, although it isn't as invisible as fluoro. In any case, it's still hard for fish to see. You can get all these color-tinted lines to match your water, but I just like clear line. ​

Above: Braid and fluoro have some very obvious drawbacks, especially for the budget angler. 

​  Mono is often touted for not being "strong enough." While braid and fluoro have more strength per diameter, there aren't many applications in which 60 lb braid comes in handy. You don't need aircraft cable to winch in a 2lb bass from a pond. Here in Maryland, I rarely catch any fish over 3 lbs. So why the high strength line? 

  Mono is often decried for not being durable. However, recent advances in line technology has made mono quite durable. I have often winched 4lb+ bass out of weeds and sticks easily. Mono is also very cheap, so it can be easily replaced if it is worn.

  In addition, some may say that mono isn't sensitive. While it may not as sensitive as the superlines are, it's good enough for me. I can easily feel small bluegill nipping at my worm while feeling the bottom with a texas rig.

  While mono has it's drawbacks, for most "weekend warriors," I think it's good enough as an all around line. 

Tight lines,

​-Ian