Shopping for the most invisible fishing line can be challenging, even for experienced anglers. With different color fishing line available in the market, picking the right one could spell success or failure on your trip.
In this article, let’s look at the differences between green fishing line vs clear colored fishing line to see which will work best for river fishing. Plus, we’ll discuss some common questions to help expand your angling expertise.
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Comparing Clear and Green Monofilament Lines
Since we’re looking at the green and clear varieties, let’s quickly compare them to figure out whether they are good or bad options.
1. Visibility
First on our list is the visibility factor of these fishing line colors. You’re buying these lines for low visibility, so it’s important to consider how invisible they are when used.
- On one hand, clear-colored fishing lines stand as the go-to for your usual angler. Its transparent coloration lends itself well to diverse water types, with most fish unable to see the line until it’s too late.
Word of caution, though, as clear fishing lines stick out like a sore thumb on muddy waters.
- Green color fishing line for freshwater, on the other hand, tend to work better in murky and freshwater situations. The presence of algae in the water gives it a greenish hue, making the green fishing line blend in well like camouflage.
And no, we’re not talking about a neon green fishing line here, but a standard green one.
Winner: Clear for clear water, green for murky or freshwater fishing.
2. Tensile Strength
Measured in pounds, tensile strength refers to how much the line can handle before it snaps. Key factors for fishing line strength include material types, manufacturing quality, and if it’s a single or braided line.
This means color variation won’t affect how strong the lines will be. You can choose any color and get the same tensile strength based on a fishing line test chart.
Winner: Depends on specific brand and product quality
3. Abrasion Resistance
Another vital factor when buying a fishing line is its abrasion resistance. This determines how long the line will last when brushing against reefs and rocky structures as your catch tries to escape. The more resistant the line is, the less likely it will break on you.
Clear or green fluorocarbon fishing lines typically have the highest abrasion resistance thanks to their specialized production, UV protection, and waterproof capabilities. Monofilament lines come in second, with braided fishing lines completing the list.
Winner: Depends on the fishing line type
4. Price
The last factor to look at, but certainly not the least, revolves around the price of these fishing lines. The last thing you want is a fishing line that will break the bank, right?
While fishing lines come in an assortment of colors, clear will always be the most basic option available. It’s also the most inexpensive variety, as it’s the easiest to manufacture in addition to being highly sellable. Here are some affordable clear fishing lines in the market:
- Zebco Outcast Monofilament Fishing Line, 190 yds – $3.29
- Monofilament Fishing Line, 755 ft – $3.39
- Pen- Fishing Line, 218 Yards – $4.85
And while green fishing lines aren’t expensive, they’re a tad pricier than their transparent brethren. See some popular green fishing lines online:
- Strike King Contra Braid Performance Fishing Line, 300-Yards – $6.37
- Piscifun Onyx Braided Fishing Line, 150 yards – $5.99
- Stren Original Monofilament Fishing Line, 330 yards – $6.99
Winner: Clear Fishing Line
Fishing Line Color Selection Guide
The fishing market offers other shade variations besides the previously discussed colors. Here’s a quick look at some of them and recommended applications for each. Here’s a fishing line color chart that shows the color visibility underwater:
1. Yellow
Bright and eye-catching yellow color fishing line for freshwater might seem strange, but it works in certain conditions. It’s easy for the angler to see while blending well on murky waters. But as much as you can see the line, so would some fish types.
2. Red
According to studies, red tends to lose its color the deeper underwater it gets. This and the fact that it’s easy to spot above water make them a good fishing line option for some anglers.
3. Blue
Blue is close to clear as a preferred fishing line color for saltwater fishing, as it blends greatly with the water. There’s another type called clear blue, which combines the features of both clear and blue colors.
4. Grey/Black
While bright colors like lime green fishing line work well, some anglers swear on using dark-colored variants for successful catches. Black and grey begin to fade around 10 feet underwater, so they’re great for deep fishing locations.
Frequently Asked Fishing Line Questions
How Does Water Clarity Affect Fishing Line Visibility?
Water clarity refers to the visual condition of the water and ranges from crystal clear to dark and murky. Some fishing line colors are more visible than others on certain clarity levels. This means the answer to the question ‘Does fishing line color matter?’ is a yes.
Can I Switch Between Green and Clear Fishing Line for Different Fishing Conditions?
Yes, you can switch between fishing line colors based on the fishing conditions and where you’ll be fishing. Clear fishing lines can work in various situations, while green fishing lines are ideal for murky freshwater spots with lots of organic growth.
Other Fishing Line Types and Performance
There are three major fishing line types, namely:
- Monofilament
One of the most popular fishing line types, it boasts great durability and utility. It also comes in a wide range of colors and is affordable.
- Fluorocarbon
Normally used as a leader material, fluorocarbon lines become invisible underwater and have excellent abrasion resistance.
- Braided
Compared to monofilament lines, braided lines have higher tensile strength, sink faster, and cast farther. However, it has less abrasion resistance and is quite hard to cut in case of a tangle.
Can Fish See the Fishing Line Color?
While most can only see in greyscale, some fish species see braided line color. Consider this when choosing the fishing line color you’ll be using.
Conclusion
Picking the right color fishing line for bass, salmon, or other fishes requires more than preference. Before grabbing that spool, you must determine several factors, like the fishing spot and water visibility.
When it comes to green fishing line vs clear, clear fishing lines will work great in most spots as it adapts well to the water. However, if you plan to fish on a murky freshwater spot, you can opt for a green fishing line instead.
Hi, I’m Thomas Kirk. As someone who loves fishing, I am here to offer everyone help on all aspects of angling, whether it’s preparing live bait or determining when to crank in a fish. As you go through the guides here, feel free to let us know your thoughts and any topics you want to learn more about.