Fishing Line Calculator
Find the right fishing line test weight and type based on your target fish species and fishing style.
Recommended Line
Fishing line selection depends on target species weight, fishing conditions, and technique.
General rule: Line test should be 25–50% of the target fish weight for experienced anglers, or equal to fish weight for beginners.
Line test by target species:
| Species | Weight Range | Recommended Line |
|---|---|---|
| Panfish/Trout | 1–5 lbs | 2–6 lb test |
| Bass (largemouth) | 2–10 lbs | 8–17 lb test |
| Walleye | 3–10 lbs | 6–10 lb test |
| Pike/Musky | 10–30 lbs | 15–30 lb test |
| Catfish | 5–50 lbs | 12–30 lb test |
| Salmon/Steelhead | 8–30 lbs | 10–20 lb test |
| Saltwater inshore | 5–30 lbs | 10–20 lb test |
| Offshore/big game | 50–500+ lbs | 30–130 lb test |
Line types:
- Monofilament: Versatile, stretchy, cheapest. Good for beginners
- Fluorocarbon: Nearly invisible underwater. Best for clear water
- Braided: Strongest, thinnest, no stretch. Best for heavy cover