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Mono is easily the most popular mainline used in all types of fishing. It's also one of the cheapest options instead of fluoro and braid. This guide will cover everything you need to know about fishing with mono. We also have a Guide to Fishing with Braid if you're still unsure what mainline to use.
WHAT IS MONO?
Mono (Monofilament) is a type of line created from a single material. The most common material used to create monofilament is nylon. Often, to create different breaking strains and stretch then more than one type of nylon could be combined.Â
There's a really wide variety of mono on the market today ranging from different diameters, breaking strains, colours and stretch. It can be hard to know the best type for different situations. Below there will be more information on mono including the best type for your style of fishing to what knots are the strongest to tie.
BREAKING STRAIN AND DIAMETER
As with any other fishing line the breaking strain and diameter will be determined by the size of fish you're aiming to catch and the distance or reel size you have. The lower breaking strain mono should only be used for smaller species of fish like roach and rudd. While the higher breaking strains should be used for larger species. Typically anything above 10lb breaking strain will be good for medium sized carp.
The diameter is another factor to consider when buying any line. Most packaging should include a line diameter which is important to know when spooling a reel. For example a shallow reel may only be able to hold 100m of wider diameter line, so you would need a lower diameter or a deeper spool to be able to fish at further distances. Â
BEST KNOTS TO USE
 
There are many different types of knots out there, some more complicated while others. One of the most commonly used knots in angling is the palomar knot which is great for mono, fluoro and braid. The knot is super easy to tie and very strong. Another popular knot is the clinch knot which is also very strong and easy to tie. However, the clinch knot should only be used with mono as it can sometimes slip when using braid and fluoro.
If you're planning to use leaders then a great knot to attach mono to braid is the double uni knot. It's a relatively simple knot to tie but is super strong and great for attaching two lengths of line together.
WHEN SHOULD I USE MONO?
Mono is a versatile line and great for most fishing situations. It's also the best line to use as a beginner as the stretch makes it more forgiving over other lines such as braids. The stretch will also help prevent the hook pulling through a fish’s mouth. The most commonly used mono types will be flexible, which are the easiest to cast and the better option for mainlines rather than stiffer mono unless you are fishing for huge fish.Â
CAN I USE MONO FOR HOOKLINKS?
Yes! Mono is a commonly used material for hooklengths. Depending on the rig you're aiming for, the mono you use for the mainline can be also used for hooklengths. We have a guide on the different hooklength materials and the best ones to use for different types of rigs.
DISADVANTAGES OF MONOFILAMENT
- Mono can be weakened from UV light. Depending on how often you fish, it's recommended to change mono at least once a year.
- Generally a thicker material for its breaking strain compared to other materials.
- Not as sensitive as braid due to the stretchy properties.
- Usually not the best choice for distance casting due its diameter.Â
POPULAR MONO FOR MAINLINES
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DAIWA HYPER SENSOR
 
This line from Daiwa is a great all round mono. It's been designed to allow further casting distances due to its thinner diameter. The mono is available in four sizes, 6lb, 12lb, 20lb and 25lb. It is also available in 300m spools and beyond 1000m spool sizes.
Key Features:
- High abrasion resistance
- Great knot strength
- Dark sensor colour
- Thinner Diameter
FOX EXOCET MONO
 
This mono from Fox has a trans khaki colour making it almost invisible in water. The low diameter and suppleness make it great for casting longer distances. It also pins down great to the bottom of the lakebed keeping it out of the way of passing fish. Available in sizes between 10lb and 23lb.
Key Features:
- Low visibility
- Low diameter for the breaking strain
- Low memory and great knot strength
- Great abrasion resistance
NASH BULLET MONO
 
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The Nash Bullet mono is available in both low viz green and brown. Coming in sizes of 12lb, 15lb and 20lb. This mono has low stretch making it different to most other types out there.
Key Features:
- Low stretch
- Fast sinking
- high abrasion resistance
- Good knot strength
