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The 10 Best Lines For Surf Fishing – Reviews and Complete Buying Guide

Best Line For Surf Fishing

Surf fishing is an exciting and invigorating sport that can leave you with some big gains. Fishing in the ocean waves requires a heavy-duty fishing line to combat the constant tossing and turning of the salty water. Surf fishing rods,reels and lines need to be able to withstand the harsh salt waters of the ocean and cast far out into the blue waters. However, they must also be light so the line can whip through the air and out into the ocean blue. The fish out in the deep blue sea is much heavier and stronger than most lake bass. It is important to find a surf line that can withstand their mighty strength.

Finding the right line for you can be confusing and there are several different types of ocean fishing lines. Some surf fishing lines come in a braided form, microfilament, or fluorocarbon types, but whichever one you prefer, we will review each type. These types of lines ensure that whatever you may catch out in the open ocean waters, they won’t bend and break. We have reviewed some of the top lines, and the guide will help you narrow down how to find the best line for surf fishing.

  What Are The Best Lines For Surf Fishing?

  1. Stren High Impact Monofilament Fishing Line

  2. RUNCL PowerMono Fishing Line

  3. Berkley Vanish Fluorocarbon Fishing Line

  4. RUNCL Braided Fishing Line – Ultra Strong

  5. Kast King’s World Premium Monofilament Fishing Line

  6. Mounchain Braided Fishing Line

  7. Reaction Take High-Performance Braided Fishing Line

  8. Rikimaru Braided Fishing Line

  9. Kast King SuperPower Braided Fishing Line

  10. Kast King Durablend Monofilament Line

10 Best Lines For Surf Fishing Reviews

Our top budget-friendly pick for the best casting line is the Stren High Impact Monofilament Fishing line. This top of the “line” surf fishing line is ideal for those that need a strong and durable choice without breaking the bank. This line is affordable and can withstand the rustling and bustling of big game fish. The large ocean fish can stand a chance again this line. The monofilament line is ideal for those that don’t want their line to sink or float but for those that want an even bob in the water.

This line is ideal for those that don’t want to dish out all their money for an expensive line. The Stren High Impact Monofilament Line features strength that can withstand accidentally getting caught up in logs and trees and it won’t break. The line can easily stretch and absorb the heavy shock when it comes to large fish trying to getaway.

Pros

  • Available in several different colors like green and silver
  • Shock resistant for large fish can withstand lots of force
  • Transparent and can’t be noticed in the water
  • Budget-friendly strong, durable fishing line

Cons

  • A bit more uneven and curly in some parts
  • Easy to get tangled up if not careful

This abrasion-resistant line is constructed of strong, light, and durable nylon for the absorbency that you need but it won’t weigh you down. Often, sea fishermen are concerned with big strikes that ultimately take down their line. Well, the Big Game monofilament line won’t snap under pressure.

This line can be used up to 127 lbs of tension and force without signs of breakage. It is knot friendly, so when you want to tie up, you aren’t struggling to bend it. There won’t be any concern with knots undoing without your regard. At first, the line may seem a bit stiff but once you have it all set and ready to go, it tends to warm up and give a bit more shock absorbency to it. The monofilament design allows it to suspend in water instead of sinking or floating, ensuring that you get the bite you deserve.

Pros

  • Knot-friendly, ideal for keeping knots together and tight without undoing
  • Won’t break in debris, can withstand twists and turns when it gets stuck
  • The line is very visible to humans but it is virtually translucent to fish in the water

Cons

  • Maybe a bit too stretchy for some, the stretch is far but not quite as good at recoiling

A trusted fishing company for over 100 years, Berkley vanish fishing line is made of absorbent fluorocarbon material. This line is our best value pick due to its strength and the fluorocarbon material allows for maximum shock absorbency, and this is all without emptying your wallet. This material can withstand the shocks, twists, and pulls off some of the strongest fish. This line is best put to use when you have the right knot with it and it is ideally used for a leader line. Fluorocarbon is not quite as user friendly as our friend monofilament but when reeled in slowly, it sure can put up a fight.

I would suggest using the fluorocarbon as a strong leader line and not the mainline, this will be your best bet for success. It is light enough to make long casts but strong enough to reel in 30 lb fish if necessary. Overall, the Berkley Vanish fluorocarbon line is a high-quality surf fishing line for the money.

Pros

  • Made of 100% fluorocarbon for extra absorbency and stretch
  • Lightweight which is best for long casts but durable enough to reel in a 30-pound fish
  • Ideal surf fishing line for a leader line outperforms the competition

Cons

  • Not ideal for the mainline
  • Fluorocarbon may be a bit too stretchy for those that prefer a stiffer line

This bright and braided line allows you to see exactly where your line is and resists any sort of abrasion that comes in its way. The braided line is smaller in diameter so it is ideal for those that love to cut the water quickly and smoothly. This line is made up of 8 strands to ensure that no amount of wear and tear can take it out. It comes in several different spool sizes so you can find the one that best suits you.

Since saltwater is harsh on fishing lines, it comes with a coated technology that resists the harshness of the saltwater so the line can be used over and over again. There is a minimal stretch that is associated with the line, this means that you won’t have a dangling loose line at the end of the day that you must throw away. The minimal stretch allows you to feel every little push and pull when the fish are biting at your hook. Even though there is a minimal stretch, this doesn’t mean that there is minimal absorbency. This line can withstand the pulls and jigs of strong fish that are trying to put up a fight.

Pros

  • Multicolored, easy to spot and see where you line is in the water
  • 8 braided stranded for ultimate strength and less breakage
  • Smaller diameter allows for the braid to cut through the water quicker than other lines
  • Enhanced coating technology that can withstand the hard waters of the salty sea
  • Relatively budget-friendly for a strong braided line

Cons

  • Only available in multicolor, no single colors available
  • Maybe a bit too stiff for those that prefer a looser line and with more stretch
  • Color tends to fade relatively quickly in harsher saltwater conditions

This line is available in over 10 different sizes and is made of 100% monofilament nylon. The high-density nylon is ideal for those that love strong tensile strength and durability to withstand up to 30 pounds. There is less absorbency so when there are fish swimming around your line, you can feel every kick and bite. In no time, you can hook fish a bit quicker with the ultra sensitivity of the line.

The Kast King’s line is a thin and durable microfilament line that showcases ultra hydrophobic characteristics. This means that the water resists the line and an easy cut through it. The light hydrophobic line is ideal for farther casting and reeling in quicker. This line is not the best ocean fishing line for beginners however and may take some time to get used to. It can be easy for beginners to accidentally over spool the line or cause loose retrieving which may damage the line. For this line, there may be a slight learning curve making sure that it doesn’t curl but the one drawback outweighs the benefits.

Pros

  • Is available in over 10 different spool sizes
  • Made of hydrophobic 100% microfilament nylon, this cuts through the water efficiently
  • Smaller diameter than other microfilament lines
  • Showcases lots of strength, up to 30 pounds of pull

Cons

  • Not the ideal line for beginners, takes a bit of a learning curve to handle due to over spooling or loose retrieving

This is one of the best braided fishing lines as it provides the high strength of the braid but the lightweight and hydrophobic qualities of microfilament.  The braided fishing line by Mounchan features abrasion resistance which is ideal for surf fishing. This line can withstand the harshness of the saltwater and won’t end up losing its color either. 

One of the best features of the Mounchain fishing line is the coating that is resistant to UV rays to prevent fading. This is a key feature that many other competitors don’t include but this ensures that you will be able to see the line even after several uses on the sunny ocean days. Also, this line is resistant to water absorption so the line color won’t bleed out.

It is constructed of 4 lines that allow for easy tying but ensures that the line is solid. There are relatively zero stretches so each bite could be the fishes last. It is available in 4 different colors so you have the choice depending on which type of water you will be fishing in the most.

Pros

  • There are 4 different color options so you can pick the one that best suits the color of water you choose to fish in
  • A braided line made of microfilament ensures the benefits of microfilament nylon but combines the strength of the braided design.
  • Resistant to tangling and very user friendly for beginners
  • Includes braided lie scissors with the purchase

Cons

  • Only has 4 strands, other competitors have braided strands with 8 lines, may not be as strong due to this

This 100% polyethylene braided line was made for durability and strength. The polyethylene design is ideal for those that are tired of lines breaking under their noses. The polyethylene provides little to no stretch so this line can be used over and over again. This line is ideal for surf fishing because the durable polyethylene combined with the braided design won’t allow a fish to snap and getaway.

The brand is from Wisconsin and they are highly rated in their customer service and if there are any issues they help get you a new saltwater fishing line right away at no charge. Many other fishing line companies are located outside of the USA and this would be difficult to have done quickly and efficiently. This line is ideal for those that are looking for great customer service and a USA based company. 

After some time, you may see some normal wear and tear but you won’t experience any sudden snaps. It is available in over 10 different colors so no matter the water you fish in you can rest assured that you can find the colored line that is right for you. Reaction tackle is a company that is committed to having happy customers and they also make one of the most dynamic braided surfing lines.

Pros

  • Company is based in the USA, great easy return and responsive customer service if there are any issues with you line
  • Made of 100% polyethylene combined with a braided style, this ensures ultra-durability and strength.
  • Round and smooth design, easy to tie knots and for beginners to use

Cons

  • After several uses, wear and tear can be noticed on the line and color could start to fade
  • Not the best to withstand lots of debris tangle, relatively no stretch will cause you to break the line instead of maneuvering it

Featuring an extra thin diameter, the Rikimaru Braided Fishing line still includes an 8 strand braid design which is strong and durable. There is low memory and virtually zero stretches so the line can’t be ripped out from underneath your nose. The 8 stranded fishing line can handle up to 180 pounds of force, which is ideal for surf fishing with the bigger game. It is constructed of polyethylene fiber which is durable and can withstand lots of pull. The line also has fluorocarbon in it which is ideal for combing the benefits of fluorocarbon with the constructed strength of a braid. 

The colors are remarkably good at staying off your hands and there will be no bleeding of color on your hands. Regarding the shape of the line, it is rounded, which can cut through the water efficiently. The color-changing line is ideal for measuring out how far your jig is and it changes every 10 meters.

For the amount of force that it can hold, it is a remarkably thin line that won’t budge at the site of a big game. This line is ideal for those that are looking to have a good trolling line that is abrasion-resistant.

Pros

  • Great line for trolling, abrasion-resistant
  • Combines the qualities of microfilament and the strong construction of braids
  • 8 lines make up the braids but are thinner than most other 8 or even 4 strand lines
  • Relatively cost-effective and affordable

Cons

  • Not made in the USA
  • No fluorescent color options

The reliable Kast King company offers a line that is made for the strength and wind of an ocean. It is our best overall pick for surf fishing due to its braided technology and abrasion resistance. Winds can become heavy and strong especially on a beach. This Kast King Super Power braided fishing line is resistant to knots that form due to high winds. This line is strong enough to catch big game like sharks and larger ocean animals. 

There is a coating that reinforces the braid so there won’t be any sort of fraying occurring on extra windy beach days. This type features 8 strands of strength and is ideal for surf fishing. The smooth coating is also ideal for tying knots and spooling, this way you won’t get frustrated trying to slip the knot through.

Ideally, this line is best for those that may get tangled up one too many times in any debris or rocks. However, this is not a common occurrence with surf fishing but it is possible. The strength attests to getting tangled up in rocks that are sharp but never breaking. When you cast out the Kast King Super Power braided fishing line, it easily is light enough to glide through the air but fish won’t stand a chance against it.

Pros

  • 8 strand braided design
  • Quiet when casting, isn’t loud and doesn’t whip and zip around
  • Ideal for very windy beach days, it is resistant to knots formed by strong winds
  • Strong abrasion resistance

Cons

  • You must pay more for different color choices
  • A bit thicker of a braid compared to other 8 strand lines

This Kast-King monofilament line is ideal for surf fishing and made specifically with saltwater in mind. It delivers tough fighting power that can withstand shock and take on up to 80 pounds of strength. It features Dura blend anti-wear material which is innovative and reduces memory stretch. The Dura Blend core is surrounded by hydrophobic nylons ensuring that it cuts through any water.

One of my favorite features is how fast it sinks when you cast it out. It sinks quickly so you don’t wait time reeling in a half-sunk jig. This can be the make or break the difference between getting the big game and the little guys.

The monofilament is strong and light and smaller in diameter than other braided lines. It is ideal for a strong leader line and is easy to tie on.

Pros

  • Constructed of a Dura Blend core
  • Nylon outside coating, this is hydrophobic and ideal for cutting through the water quickly
  • Sinks fast than most other brands, this way you won’t be stuck reeling in small game
  • Easy to tie, the monofilament is small in diameter compared to most braided lines

Cons

  • Mostly only ideal for leader line not necessarily mainline usage

Best Lines For Surf Fishing Comparison Table

Buying Guide: Finding Best Line For Surf Fishing

Surf fishing is very unique in the way that you fish from the beachside. This means that there are elements of both the land and the sea at stake. For example, high winds on land can make it difficult to cast but it is important to have a hydrophobic line that can cut through the water with ease. There are certain factors to look out for when searching for the best surf fishing line on the market.

braided fishing line

Braided vs. Monofilament vs. Fluorocarbon

These are the 3 main types of fishing lines that are featured in our buying guide. It is difficult to compare the three because they all offer great advantages but specifically for surf fishing, braided lines take the crown.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Braided Line

When we talk about fishing in strong ocean currents, braided line is going to be your best bet. Here is a shortlist of some of the features of braided lines.

  • Have a smaller diameter than other types of lines
  • Offers lots of durable strength due to the several strand reinforcement
  • Allows for longer casting
  • Minimal to no stretch in most braided lines

When looking at the advantages of braided lines, it matches up with a lot of characteristics you need for surf fishing. This is why I highly recommend braided lines for surf fishing. One of the biggest concerns when surf fishing is being able to cast out far enough into the ocean. Braided lines are easier to cast in higher winds and into the ocean than other types of lines. Additionally, there is a very limited stretch in them due to their braided design. The design is reinforced by spreading out the tensions along several different lines. This ensures that it can withstand heavy waves, winds, and big fish.

However, there are some disadvantages to the braided line. For example, the braided line tends to be a bit more expensive than the single-strand monofilament or fluorocarbon. Additionally, several stranded lines are not ideal for being discrete. It is highly visible and may scare away some smart fish. 

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Monofilament Line

A classic line that many have come to know and rely on, monofilament is popular with many fishermen. When it comes to using it for surf fishing, there are several advantages. Here is a list of some of those.

  • Very user friendly and easy to handle
  • Larger in diameter, which causes the lure to go further under the water much quicker
  • Lots of shocks and pull strength, ideal for the big game fish in the ocean tide
  • Affordable and budget-friendly out of all the lines

These are a few of the advantages when it comes to the monofilament fishing line. For example, a monofilament fishing line is ideal for the shock and strength of bigger game fish. This can be the literal make or break moment where a fishing line foes from great to bad. The larger diameter of the monofilament fishing line is also a great bonus because it helps the lure go underneath the water quickly but it is slow to sink. Also, the monofilament fishing line is much more wallet-friendly and you can get more of it for cheaper.

Monofilament fishing line has lots of advantages for surf fishing but there are a few drawbacks. One of the main concerns is the vulnerability it has to UV rays. This can cause problems with the color fading and strength over time.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Fluorocarbon Line

A less common but reliable choice for a fishing line is fluorocarbon. This is a material that is durable and is not always ideal for the mainline but is a sure-fire for a leader line. Here is a list of some of the characteristics that fluorocarbon line offers.

  • Very UV resistant
  • Not dark or obvious, highly discreet and low visibility
  • Big and round diameter, this way it can still be visible to you but not the fish
  • Keen to sensitivity, you will easily be able to feel when fish are having a bit of a snack before the big bite

These are some of the advantages of fluorocarbon that can benefit you when surf fishing. For example, fluorocarbon is UV resistant so when there are sunny beach days, you don’t have to worry about the extreme wear and tear. Also, surf fishing requires you to no be as close to the end of the line. You cannot see the fish when it is nibbling but you must rely on the line. Fluorocarbon is very sensitive and you will easily be able to tell just when a big one is nibbling.

There are some disadvantages to fluorocarbon which make it not quite as popular as the other two lines. For example, fluorocarbon is not ideal for the ginormous shock strength of much big ocean fish. This can cause early breakage and for you to lose out on a big guy. Also, since it is bigger in diameter, it sinks quite quickly and is more ideal for trolling rather than surf fishing.

microfilament fishing line

Color Availability

Many times, people love to have a wide variety of color that suits their personality. But in the case of a fishing line, color is important for the type of water you plan to fish in. Ocean water can vary greatly in the color of blue and even on the day. It is important to consider a brand or line that has lots of color variability so it can adapt to any day.

Additionally, with surf fishing, you are much farther away from the end of the line. Sometimes, a multicolored line that changes every 10 meters can help you gauge how far out your line is. This can be especially useful for surf fishing anglers.

FAQs

Which fishing line is the best for surf fishing?

This is a loaded question that comes down to personal preference. I usually suggest that people buy braided fishing line because it fits some much-needed qualities for a successful line for fishing. For example, the braided line is ultra-strong with reinforced strands of a line rather than just 1 single line. I am always concerned about having a line that snaps right in the middle of a big fish biting so I always go with braided.

What is the difference between polyethylene fishing line and nylon?

There is a difference between these two types of lines and how they interact with water. Polyethylene is a very strong and durable material that can be found in several different types of lines, braided or monofilament. Many monofilament lines have a core than nylon covering. The nylon is hydrophobic so it can cut through water quickly and efficiently. Either one is a great choice and for surf fishing, the polyethylene may be a bit more durable for the initial shock of a big fish.

Conclusion

Surf fishing is an amazing hobby that is rewarding and fun to pursue. It is exciting when you get big fish from the shore of the ocean and you can rely on your fishing line to pull the weight. Surf fishing requires a reliable and durable line to pull through.

Our top pick for the best overall line was the Kast King Super Power Braided fishing line. This line offers lots of abrasion resistance, 8 stranded durabilities, and can cast out far but still be seen. If this one is a bit out of your budget, then you may want to try the Stren High Impact Monofilament line. This is our budget-friendly pick that offers several different colors to choose from and is shock resistant. If you want a combination of high quality and budget-friendly, then I would suggest our best value pick the Berkley Vanish Fluorocarbon line. This line is discreet but won’t break the bank.

 When looking for the best line for surf fishing, try to think about what you are specifically looking for in a line. No matter which line you end up choosing, each line has an array of advantages to fit your needs best.

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