Older fishing line

[MikeG3Boat]

I was looking through some tackle tonight and I ran across some Fishing line that has been around for a few years. I am wondering if it would still be okay to use. I know that fishing line that has been out in the sun and weather needs to be replaced every year, but this has been in the package and out of the sun.

What do you guys think?

[delcecchi]

My opinion is that if it has been stored inside and protected from excessive heat it should be fine, if by a few years you mean less than 5. More than that might be a little risky, although I have used mono older than that. You are talking about mono right? Braid for sure will be ok.

[delmuts]

del. is right. It al depends on how it was stored!

I have solar XT 2 & 4 lb. that is over 10 yrs. old that I still use with no problems.( I know this isn't recommended, BUT!! ) All of mine is kept in the basement where it is cool and no sun light gets to it. If it's been exposed to any heat I would be concerned. If in question I would replace it.

[efgh]

If it is that old, I would probley just throw it. If you really want too know if the break strengh is still there, strip off about 10 ft. tie one end to a unmoveable object, tie a scale too the other end and pull till it breaks, note the weight it breaks on the scale and compare it too the strengh on the spool.

[gunner55]

Same as delmuts here except ours is 1000 yd spools of Cabela's in 4,6, & 8 lb test with no problems.

[Down Deep]

I fish for multiple species on both open and hard water many of which require various lb tests and ratings. I frequently have mono stored 5 years or more. I used these lines when I've needed them and have never had a performance problem. I store my extra filler spools in my garage which is usually unheated and subject to wide temperature swings. Before I'd throw a spool away I'd peel off 4 feet or so and do a snap test.

[Deitz Dittrich]

Like others have said. So long as its in a cool, dry, and out of sunlight. Its probably just fine. IF exposed to heat, or wet, or sunlight, probably not.

I have line that is 5 years old, and will use it with confidence this spring. But I also have taken very good care of it.