Long casting, which fishing line properties affect reaching the highest distance?

When casting, the fishing line plays a significant role in determining the casting distance. Let’s examine all the factors that influence this: line properties, spool design, number of rod guides, and wind direction. These elements can significantly impact your casting range.
Here are the main mechanisms that affect casting distance:

1. Friction on the Spool
2. Friction through the Guides
3. Aerodynamic Resistance
4. Wind Drag
5. Line Weight

Now, let’s break down each point in detail.

• 1. Friction on the Spool

The more distance you aim to cast, the deeper the spool required to accommodate the necessary length of line. However, deeper spools create more resistance during casting. To counter this, use Long Cast spools with maximum width, which reduce friction. Additionally, opt for monofilament lines with the smallest possible diameter, as thinner lines take up less space on the spool, further minimizing resistance.

• 2. Friction through the Guides

When line is released from the spool, it spirals through the guides. The first guide creates a braking effect by restricting the spiral motion. On casting rods, the first guide is often larger in diameter (50 mm) and tilted at an angle, which reduces friction and increases casting distance. To minimize resistance further, use smooth and elastic monofilament lines that glide easily through the guides.

• 3. Aerodynamic Resistance

As the sinker flies through the air, the line trails behind it, encountering airflow. At the initial phase of the cast—when the sinker rises along its trajectory—air resistance has minimal impact. However, as the sinker begins its descent, this resistance becomes significant. The sinker follows a ballistic trajectory, and the line moves with it.
When the sinker starts descending, the line must simultaneously move forward and downward, increasing its surface area exposed to air resistance. On this final phase, the entire length of the line moves downward, increasing drag. Thicker lines with larger cross-sectional areas experience more aerodynamic resistance, reducing the casting distance.

• 4. Wind Drag

Headwinds or crosswinds create two types of resistance:

• Headwinds counteract the forward motion of both the sinker and the line.
• Crosswinds introduce additional curvature to the line, effectively increasing its length and resistance.

The wind's drag effect depends on the line’s diameter and length. Thicker lines act like sails, catching the wind and pulling the sinker in the opposite direction, reducing distance.

• 5. Line Weight

From our fishing experience, we know that different lines sink at varying rates depending on their material density. Typically, this density coefficient ranges from 1.1 to 1.35, showing how much heavier the line is compared to water.
A lighter line reduces the overall mass trailing behind the sinker, enabling it to fly farther. For casting, prioritize lightweight lines with minimal diameter.
Key Recommendations for Carp Casting

1. Use Long Cast spools with maximum width to minimize friction on the spool.
2. Select elastic, smooth lines to reduce resistance through rod guides.
3. Opt for lightweight monofilament lines with the smallest possible diameter to minimize aerodynamic resistance.

• Katran GmbH’s Expertise in Monofilament Lines

For over 10 years, Katran has specialized in producing monofilament lines tailored to various fishing conditions. Understanding the properties of your line is crucial for optimal performance in specific scenarios.
In 2014, the Croatian national team won the World Carp Fishing Championship using Katran’s NEON line. This model is known for its excellent casting properties and remains a favorite among athletes in the Carp Casting Championships.
A Final Tip from Our CEO:
Choose and test your fishing line in real-world conditions to find the perfect balance between:

• Day-and-night visibility,
• Strength and reliability,
• Diameter and aerodynamics.