Will a Fishing Line Fence Keep Deer Out?

One method commonly used to deter deer is a fence made with fishing line, which is relatively simple to set up and keep up. This type of fence involves placing multiple monofilament fishing lines around the perimeter of the desired area at a height of approximately chest level. The nearly invisible lines serve as a barrier to any potential deer or animals, preventing them from entering and causing unpleasant experiences that discourage future attempts.

When constructed properly, a fishing line fence can be an effective way of keeping deer out of areas they should not be in. The key is in the placement and spacing of the lines.

They should be strung tight and close together – generally no more than 6” apart – and at least 3-4 feet off the ground. This ensures that any animal attempting to jump over or crawl under the fence will encounter an unpleasant surprise.

In addition to the physical barrier presented by the lines themselves, they also produce an audible sound when they move in response to wind or animals brushing against them. This provides another layer of deterrence as animals become conditioned to avoid areas with this sound, associating it with an unpleasant experience. Additionally, reflective materials such as bright colored flags or strips of mylar can be attached to the lines for further deterrence by increasing visibility and adding movement when touched by wind or wildlife.

Fishing line fences are relatively easy to install and maintain, although it does require some basic knowledge about how fences work and some outdoor skills such as knot tying and staking down the posts that hold up the lines. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of fences, which makes them attractive for those looking for a cost-effective alternative to traditional fencing materials like wood or metal.

Conclusion: Will a fishing line fence keep deer out? Yes, if constructed properly and maintained regularly, it can provide effective protection against deer entering your yard or garden space. However, due to its limited visibility it may not be suitable in all applications so care should be taken when selecting this type of fencing option.

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Lindsay Collins