When do you replace fishing line on reels ?

[Southern Grin]

I am a relatively new recreational fisherman. I bought new rods and reels last year to fish in the Chesapeake Bay. My question is when should I replace the line that is on my reels ?? Is this something that is done on a seasonal basis ? Is there a tell tale sign by looking at the line when it should be replaced ? the line looks OK, but not sure.

[Gotta Gaff 'Em]

With mono its can be diffiult to tell when to replace it. Most guys do it on a yearly basis, some can stretch it to two years, depending on how much and how hard you fish. For example if you only fish say 50 or so times a year and it isnt balls out heavy action then you could probably do it every two years provided you keep the reels clean. If you fish upwards of 100 days a year and its pretty heavy like most charters then id say do it once a year. Usually in the spring. As far as braid goes that will last you in most cases at least two years. The biggest thing to look for in mono is if it gets foggy or off colored. THat and brittleness or memory are a sure sign to change it. Some guys extend the life of their mono by flipping it on the reel every year. Take it off and reel it back on in the opposite direction, basically putting the older stuff on the bottom and the untouched stuff up top.

[Southern Grin]

Hey G G 'EM, Thanks for the info. I didn't fish all that much last year so I think what I'll do is just reverse the line on the reels and see how that works out !

[surfnsam]

most just replace the mono. braid is more expensive so that gets reversed so that the unused line is used.

[tolmaz]

It gets done at least every season

[BlueMarlin84]

If you're a weekend warrior and take care of your equipment after each trip, the mono should be good for two seasons, I would remove 10+ yards or so from the top prior to the second season. Also, wipe down the reel, rod, and spool (line) with Penn Rod and Reel Cleaner, the stuff works wonders and personally I think it preserves the line. For braid I would inspect it closely, if starting to fray replace, if not, keep using it. I have had Power Pro last for 2+ seasons and be fine, other times its done after 3/4 a season. Just make sure to keep your braid spools well washed and clean.

[27 sailfish]

For mono - worst enemy is heat and sunlight. If not used often and kept in a shaded / cool area - you can get few seasons from it.

Braid holds up very well. I changed out some reels and a friend took my old braid. He uses it about 15 times a season - that was about 10 years ago.

Keep in mind - the lighter the test - more often you should change it. You lose 50% strength on 80lb - still good chance to land a fish.

Lose 50% on 12 lb - now it's only 6 lb test.

Another tip - often the knot fails long before the line breaks. It pays to cut off knots and re tie them often.