When it comes to fishing, the condition of your tackle is critical. From your rods and reels, to your bait and lures, all of these components need to be in good working order in order for you to have a successful day on the water. One component that can often be overlooked is your fishing line; specifically, how sunlight affects its composition over time.
The answer to this question can vary depending on the type of line that you are using. Monofilament lines are made from nylon which is highly susceptible to UV radiation.
This means that leaving it out in direct sunlight for long periods of time can cause it to become brittle and weak. The UV radiation breaks down the molecular structure of the nylon, making it more prone to snapping under pressure or even when tying knots.
Braided lines are a bit more resilient when exposed to sunlight, but they too will degrade over time if left out in direct sunlight for too long. The synthetic fibres that make up braided lines tend to be tougher than monofilament but they will still start to break down if left exposed for extended periods of time. This breakdown leads to fraying and thinning of the line which can lead it failing under pressure or when tying knots.
In conclusion, sunlight can have a detrimental effect on both monofilament and braided fishing lines if left out in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. It is always best practice to store your tackle out of direct sunlight when not in use, as this will help ensure its longevity and help you get more life out of your fishing gear.
Does Sunlight Degrade Fishing Line? – Yes, both monofilament and braided line can degrade if exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period of time due to UV radiation breaking down the molecular structure or synthetic fibres that make up the line respectively. The best way to prevent this from happening is by storing your tackle away from direct sunlight when not in use.
