How to set up a line for a good start in spearfishing

A minimum of equipment © Olivier Lalouf

Setting up a line correctly isn't something you're born with, but it's very easy to learn how to choose the right nylon, float and hook for a good start in spearfishing. Useful tips for setting up your lines.

Choosing the right equipment

The line consists of nylon, float, sinker, loop, leader and hook. To get off to a good start, choose a 12-centime spool line. The line body and leader are connected loop to loop (1.5 cm loop). Floats are usually made of balsa, foam or plastic. They come in a variety of shapes, but the main ones are carrots (used in canals), balls (water depth and high water movement) and pears (all-purpose float). The most important features of a float are balance, stability, which is linked to the keel, and visibility. The sinker is made up of 8 to 10 sinkers for sensitivity. The greater the distance between each sinker, the greater the sensitivity.

To know more

La plombée, une étape essentielle
Lead sealing, an essential step

Don't overtighten the sinkers so that you can move them if necessary during the fishing trip. The leader should be 2 hundredths below the line body, in this case 10 hundredths. Theoretically, there's usually a gap of 2 hundredths between the line body and the leader. Its length varies according to the bottom, the current and the fish's wary nature. The shorter the leader, the faster the bite. To use the same leaders, use a graduated board. Hooks should be number 18 to 20 fine iron without barbs; if you have barbed hooks, it's best to crush them.

Nothing insurmountable about assembly

Des lignes montées
Mounted lines

First, attach the float about 50 cm from the spool end of the line body, then make a loop at the end of the line. Next, attach the sinkers with a pair of pliers. Be careful not to over-tighten them, as they must be able to slide. Balance the float in a maxi bottle of cut mineral water or a special tube. Lead the line as tightly as possible: only the float tip should protrude. Trim with one or two extra sinkers if necessary, then join the leader and body with a loop-in-loop knot. Unwind a length of line according to the length of the rod. It should be about 30 cm shorter than the rod. To finish, make a loop and attach the finished line to the bending block using the line holder.

More articles on the theme