Difference between tippet and fishing line [Archive]

Jimmy Harris

01-14-05, 09:21 AM

I just read the posts some of the other folks made and have to tell you that they've done a pretty good job of explaining it. Basically, tippet material (good tippet material) will be smaller diameter for the lb. test and be more consistent than regular monofilament line. Depending on the brand, you will also find some tippet material designed to be stiffer or more supple. There won't be any difference between manufacturers on the diameter of the line in relation to the "X" designation. For example, everyone's 3X will be .008, everyone's 0X will be .011. These are industry wide standards. What you will find is that not everyone's 3X will be the same strength. 3X Maxima is 5 lb., 3X Umpqua Fluorocarbon is 6 lb., 3X Umpqua Nylon is 8 lb., Rio Fluoroflex is 6 lb. but Rio Fluoroflex Plus is 9.4 lb. And the brands you find at Wal-Mart, K-Mart and other big box stores, while they may be a brand put out by Scientific Angler or Cortland, will most likely be much larger in diameter and weaker in test than the "good stuff". Most of us have, at some time, purchased large spools of monofilament (especially if we've done any extensive guiding and we're trying desperately to figure out how to hold down costs) and used them for leaders and tippet. In off-color water, fishing streamers, it probably won't make much difference. In clear water, fishing nymphs or dry flies, I personally think it can make the difference between a good day and a not so good day. When you think about it, how many fishing trips can you get out of a 30 meter spool of tippet material. On those days when you finally get away to do some fishing, is it worth the few pennies you'll save on tippet material to minimize your chances of fooling a trout? Just my opinion but thanks for asking.