Fishing Line and Terminal Tackle

Fishing line and terminal tackle are the essential foundation of any angler’s setup, whether you’re float fishing on a quiet canal, ledgering for barbel, or rigging up for carp on a big pit. This category includes everything that connects your rod to your hook: mainlines, hooklengths, hooks, weights, swivels, floats, feeders, leaders, and more. Since 1988, we’ve been helping anglers fine-tune their setups with the right lines and terminal components for every species, water, and fishing style, from coarse and carp to predator and sea fishing.

Why Fishing Line & Terminal Tackle Matter

Form the crucial link between angler and fish
Tailor your presentation for different species and venues
Improve bite detection, hook-ups, and fish safety
Adapt to changing conditions (depth, clarity, flow, weed, etc.)
Maximise your chances with custom rigs and refined setups

Whether you’re fishing mono for float control or building a hair rig for carp, quality terminal tackle makes the difference between a blank and a full net.


Types of Fishing Line We Stock

Line TypeBest ForKey Benefits
Monofilament (Mono)Float, feeder, general coarse fishingStretch absorbs shocks, easy to manage
FluorocarbonHooklengths, leaders, clear waterVirtually invisible underwater, sinks well
Braided LineFeeder, lure, carp, predator, seaUltra-sensitive, zero-stretch, high strength
Fly Line & BackingFly fishingDesigned for casting flies and controlling drift
Shock LeadersSea fishing, long castingPrevents crack-offs, handles power surges

Key Terminal Tackle Categories

  • Hooks – Barbed, barbless, eyed or spade-end, in a wide range of sizes

  • Swivels & Quick Links – Prevent line twist, enable quick rig changes

  • Weights & Shot – From micro shot for trotting to ledger weights and gripper leads

  • Floats – Wagglers, sticks, pole floats, and sliders for perfect presentation

  • Feeders – Cage, method, and pellet feeders for targeting fish on the deck

  • Hooklengths & Rigs – Pre-tied or custom, for speed and reliability

  • Beads, Stops, Sleeves & Clips – Small but vital components for neat, effective rigs

  • Leaders & Rubbing Leaders – For sea or predator fishing, to resist abrasion

  • Rig Tubing & Anti-Tangle Sleeves – Essential for neat, carp-friendly presentations


Species-Specific Tackle Tips

SpeciesRecommended Setup
CarpBraid or coated braid hooklink, safety lead clip, hair rig, size 6–10 hook
BarbelStrong mono or braid, gripper lead, size 8 hook, pellet or meat bait
Roach/BreamLight mono (2–4lb), small hooks (16–20), waggler float or feeder
Perch/PikeWire trace or heavy fluorocarbon, size 4–6 hooks, jig or deadbait rig
TroutFluorocarbon leader, barbless hook, small shot or fly line

Choosing the Right Fishing Line

  1. Match to Your Method

    • Float/waggler → Low-diameter mono (2–6lb)

    • Feeder → Strong mono or braid (6–10lb+)

    • Lure → Braid mainline + fluoro leader

    • Carp → 12–20lb mono or sinking braid

    • Sea → 20–30lb mono + 60–80lb shockleader

  2. Check Water Clarity

    • Clear water → Use fluorocarbon or light mono

    • Coloured water → Stronger, more visible lines are fine

  3. Consider Stretch & Sensitivity

    • Mono = forgiving and easy to tie

    • Braid = zero stretch, great bite indication

    • Fluorocarbon = near-invisible, more abrasion-resistant


Expert Tips for Terminal Tackle Use

Use soft shot on fine lines to prevent damage
Carry a range of hook sizes to match bait and conditions
Replace pre-tied rigs regularly—dull hooks = missed bites
Use rig stops and beads to protect knots and control bait presentation
Keep tackle organised in a dedicated box for fast, hassle-free rigging


🧠 FAQ: Fishing Line & Terminal Tackle (10+ Questions)

1. What fishing line should I use for coarse fishing?
Monofilament (3–6lb) is perfect for float or feeder fishing, offering low visibility and easy handling.

2. What’s the best line for carp fishing?
12–20lb sinking mono is ideal. For snaggy venues or long casting, braid with a leader is a great choice.

3. Can I use braid for float fishing?
It’s possible, but not ideal. Braid floats and lacks stretch—mono is better for float setups due to manageability and line control.

4. What are fluorocarbon leaders used for?
Fluorocarbon is virtually invisible underwater and abrasion-resistant—perfect for leaders, hooklengths, or stealth rigs.

5. How do I prevent line twist with terminal tackle?
Use swivels or anti-tangle sleeves, especially with spinning baits or feeders.

6. What’s the best hook size for roach and silverfish?
Size 18 to 22 barbless hooks are ideal for small baits like maggots and pinkies.

7. Are pre-tied rigs good quality?
Yes—modern pre-tied rigs from brands like Korum, Guru, and Drennan offer convenience and reliability, especially for beginners.

8. What shot should I use for stick float fishing?
Use a bulk shotting pattern with No. 4 to No. 8 split shot, spaced for a natural fall through the water.

9. How do I choose between inline and conventional feeders?
Inline feeders are safer for carp; conventional cage feeders offer better bait dispersion on rivers or lakes.

10. Do I need different line for hooklengths?
Yes—use lighter or more supple mono/fluoro than your mainline for better bait presentation and hook-ups.

11. Can I use the same terminal tackle for sea fishing?
Not always—sea tackle is typically heavier and corrosion-resistant. Use purpose-built hooks, swivels, and leaders.


The Essentials, Backed by Experts Since 1988

Fishing line and terminal tackle are the unsung heroes of your setup. We’ve spent over 30 years helping anglers build rigs that deliver—whether it’s a subtle maggot feeder on a stillwater or a 4oz gripper lead on a tidal river. With a complete range of lines, hooks, rigs, floats, and accessories, plus advice from anglers who fish what they sell, we’ve got your tackle box covered.

🎣 Fish smarter. Rig better. Explore our fishing line and terminal tackle range online or in-store today.

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