Why Is Fishing Line Called Test Line?

Fishing line is an essential tool for any angler, and understanding what it is and how it works can help to ensure that you get the best results out of your fishing experience. Fishing line is made up of a long strand of material, usually nylon or similar synthetic products, that are designed to hold a hook and bait in place while fish are attracted to the bait.

The strength of the line is measured in terms of its “test” rating, which is a measure of how much weight the line can hold before it breaks.

The phrase “test line” was originally coined by fishermen who were assessing the strength and durability of their fishing lines. They would secure weights to the lines and pull them tight, measuring the distance between the weights before the line broke. This “test rating” provided them with an indication of their line’s strength compared to others available.

The most common test ratings for fishing lines are 5-pound (lb), 10-pound (lb), 15-pound (lb), 20-pound (lb) and 25-pound (lb). However, there are other test ratings available such as 30-pound (lb) or 50-pound (lb).

Each test rating indicates how much weight a particular type of fishing line can handle before breaking. It’s important to know your test ratings when purchasing fishing lines as different types may perform differently in different conditions.

Fishing lines with higher test ratings, such as 25 or 50 pounds, tend to be more durable than those with lower ratings like 5 or 10 pounds. Higher test ratings also give anglers greater control over their catch as they can apply more pressure to reel in heavier fish without fear of breaking their line. Higher test rated lines also tend to last longer than those with lower ratings.

In conclusion, why fishing line is called “test” line is because it refers to the measure of strength for a particular type of fishing line. Different types of fishing line have different test ratings depending on their strength and durability, and it’s important for anglers to know these numbers when choosing which type of fishing line they want to use for their next adventure.

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Michael Allen