Best Ice Fishing Lines In 2023

One interesting fact about fishing is that you don’t have to put it on hold during winter. Ice fishing is a popular outdoor activity that is just as interesting as catching fish.

However, unlike regular fishing, ice fishing comes with unique challenges, including freezing conditions, vertical fishing style, and clear water visibility. One common mistake we see with many anglers is hitting the ice with the same old fishing lines.

See, most of the fish lines are inexpensive, and having a new line at the start of the season can either make or break your ice fishing experience. The second mistake we see is spooling the ice fishing rig with a regular and old fishing line. But isn’t a fishing line just a fishing line, though?

No, fishing lines are not created equal. The best ice fishing lines are sturdy and will stand up to the freezing and jagged environment of the ice. In contrast to the standard fishing line, ice fishing lines are ultra-sensitive to light bites and are suited for the abrasive environment.

And in the review guide below, we’re going to look at the top 10 ice fishing lines in the market.

Best Ice Fishing Lines

Top 10 Ice Fishing Lines Reviews

1. KastKing SuperPower

Topping our list of the best ice fishing lines is the KastKing SuperPower. Using either a 4 or an 8 strand weave, this ice fishing line is incredibly strong for the ultimate ice fishing performance.

Performance

The KastKing SuperPower uses a tight diamond pattern weave that ties each section of the braid down. As a result, it produces a thinner diameter line than looser braids, and this allows more line on the reel spool.

KastKing SuperPower is manufactured under a proprietary line treatment process that helps this line easily slip through the guide on your rod. In contrast to other treatment processes, this process does not leave a waxy feel and will give your line more lively action under the water.

Similar to other braided lines, this line has zero stretch. What it means is that fishing at depths, even 400 feet, and this line will allow you to feel each nibble.

Abrasion Resistance

KastKing SuperPower uses Dyneema strands, which are known for their resistance against abrasion.

Dyneema is one of the strong fibers, and it’s not going to compromise on its structural integrity even when you drag the line under a rock.

Cost and Value

The KastKing SuperPower is one of the expensive lines on our list. However, this braided line will consistently provide you with incredible performance, and it’s more or less as good as the more expensive and highly promoted ice fishing line.

Rating Criteria

Adjustability: 99
Durability: 99
Effectiveness: 99
Portability: 99
Style: 99

Average: 99

2. Piscifun Superline

Piscifun Superline is a superb ice fishing line, ideal for those looking for a durable line that will hold up even the heavier fish.

Like the KastKing we’ve reviewed above, this fishing line comes with minimal stretch and lightweight design.

Performance

This quality braided line comes with a tensile strength that ranges from 12 lbs. to 150 lbs. The line consists of 4-8 strands, and if you know anything about tensile strength, you will understand that the Piscifun Superline is a performer and will handle even the heaviest of the fish.

We also love the zero stretch and boosted sensitivity on this unit. Piscifun Superline produces low memory lines, even in deep fishing, and will let you feel the slightest of the movements.

Abrasion Resistant Material

Piscifun Superline is designed with a strong fiber that is abrasion-resistant. The durability and strength of this ice fishing line often go unquestioned.

The material construction makes this line more resistant to friction that may be caused by stones or jagged ice. Besides the robustness, we love the enhanced design and smoothness, letting your bait cut through the water faster and allowing you to catch more fish.

In a nutshell, the Piscifun Superline is an efficient ice fishing line, and this makes it an inspired choice for serious anglers.

Cost and Value

The Piscifun Superline is among the budget options on our list. However, it offers excellent value, and if the reviews are anything to go by, the Piscifun Superline will let you catch 30-4- lbs of the large amberjacks offshore on deep wrecks.

Rating Criteria

Adjustability: 99
Durability: 99
Effectiveness: 99
Portability: 99
Style: 98

Average: 99

 

3. Reaction Tackle

Are you planning to reel in heavy fish? Do you need extra sensitivity? And do you need something that is going to endure?

If that’s you, the Reaction Tackle is an ideal option for you.

Though a tad expensive than other lines, this high-quality braided line is super tough, has lots of sensitivity, and incredible abrasion.

Performance

Reaction Tackle comes with a variety of test weight. The weights range from 10 to 200 pounds.

The extensive range is quite handy, especially if you’re going to for the big fish that may put a heavy fight. Also, we love how this line is designed with smoothness and suppleness in mind.

If the reviews are anything to go by, it’s easy to cast this line for far distances and retrieve it. The line comes with low memory, has zero stretches, and remarkable sensitivity, making it ideal for the ice fishing enthusiasts.

Abrasion Resistant

This line is super sturdy, and the high level of abrasion resistance is attributed to its coating. This line is constructed from heavy-duty UHMWPE, which has great tensile strength and will stand up to the impact and resistance of ice fishing.

This fiber line is among the strongest options we’ve on our list, and better yet, it comes in 4 and 8 strand options. While the line on Reaction Tackle is pretty thin, it’s strong, and you should have an easy time fitting it into a single pool.

Cost and Value

The Reaction Tackle is among the mid-priced ice fishing lines on our list.  The Reaction Tackle is an impressive braid that will offer unmatched performance for a fraction of the price of other lines within its class.

Rating Criteria

Adjustability: 99
Durability: 98
Effectiveness: 99
Portability: 99
Style: 98

Average: 98

4. Berkley Trilene Micro Ice Fishing Line

Berkley is a household name within the fishing domain.

This brand is synonymous with products sporting rugged durability and exhibiting quality. The Berkley Trilene is no different. A monofilament line, Berkley Trilene, is suited for a variety of fishing tasks.

Let’s see what it has to offer.

Monofilament

Many anglers are continuously moving away from the monofilament fishing lines, but it has benefits that other lines do not have.

For a start, the Berkley Trilene is incredibly strong, and it has been engineered to reduce shock, stretch while increasing the overall resistance. A highly versatile line, the Berkley Trilene, is available in 2,3,4,6 and 8 variants.

Again, it’s available in two colors; clear steel and solar. As such, visibility should not be a concern, although it does not match lines with fluorocarbon or light braids. Again, like all the monofilament, it’s easy to tie the Berkley Trilene

Performance

Sure, the Berkley Trilene is not suited for the real fish monstres such as the muskie, it should be sufficient to hold the moderate fish such as the crappie, trout, walleye, and pike.

We particularly loved the 2-pound test; here, the Berkley Trilene performs like a real champ.

Cost and Value

The Berkley Trilene is the least inexpensive option on our list. However, it does not align with “ you get what you pay for.” Instead, you get a premium product with plenty of impressive features at a slashed price.

Rating Criteria

Adjustability: 99
Durability: 98
Effectiveness: 99
Portability: 98
Style: 98

Average: 98

5. KastKing Monofilament

KastKing Monofilament is yet another product from KastKing. This time around, however, the KastKing Monofilament is a monofilament line.

A sturdy unit, KastKing Monofilament, let you angle an extensive range of weights ranging from 4-30 pounds. The unique design, alongside the construction, will let you have a convenient time transporting, handling, and using this line.

Paralleled Roll Track Technology

We all know how using an ice fishing line can be bothersome. The KastKing Monofilament, however, comes with a proprietary feature that allows for convenient handling and casting.

The technology on this line will give you overall better control over the cast and the entire fishing equipment.

Resistant

A sturdy and resistant material is one of the key components of the best ice fishing lines. The KastKing Monofilament does not fail, thanks to its strong structural integrity.

Sporting a sturdy nylon construction, this line will stand up to abrasion, and allow you to reel the heavy catches with ease. This nylon line is tried and tested and is suitable against 30lbs of weight to suit your various ice fishing needs.

The multicolor option for better visibility is yet another remarkable property of the KastKing Monofilament. This line is available in a range of colors, including red, yellow, blue, clear, and green.

Cost and Value

KastKing Monofilament is moderately priced, and falls within the mid-echelon, regarding pricing. For the price, you get an incredible ice fishing line that will handle whatever you throw at it.

Rating Criteria

Adjustability: 99
Durability: 98
Effectiveness: 97
Portability: 97
Style: 98

Average: 98

6. Northland Bionic Ice Line

The Northland Bionic Ice Line is not your regular ice fishing line. This fishing line ticks all the boxes for the best ice fishing line.

It comes with a gamut of desirable features and will satiate the fishing needs even of the most discerning angler.

Performance

The Northland Bionic Ice Line is a monofilament line, and it comes with impressive strength. According to the manufacturer, this fishing line tests at six pounds, and this makes it a suitable option for a variety of fish, including the panfish.

This ice-fishing line will maintain all its features, even in the harshest conditions. In particular, we love how these ice fish maintain flexibility. Regardless of how chilly and temperatures drop, this line will not get rigid. Instead, it maintains its ability to move, and this makes it a real lure.

High Sensitivity

The high sensitivity of this unit allows the Northland Ice to transmit action from a bite quickly up the line easily.

We were further pleased with the versatility of this unit. The Northland Ice works well with a gamut of lures and baits, meaning no need to worry, regardless of whether you’re using jigs, spoons or boobers.

While Northland Bionic Ice Line has plenty of benefits, we were concerned with the coiling that happened when the line was deployed in the water.

Cost and Value

The Northland Bionic Ice Line is yet another budget option that will not wreak havoc to your pockets. Despite its affordability, this premium product will do wonders, especially in the frosty ice fishing conditions.

Rating Criteria

Adjustability: 97
Durability: 97
Effectiveness: 99
Portability: 97
Style: 98

Average: 97

7. Sunline Super FC Sniper Fluorocarbon

The Sunline Super FC will connect you easily to your catch, thanks to the remarkable specifications and features.

This line has impressive abrasion resistance, and this makes it quite durable and unsusceptible to break-off.

Highly pragmatic, this line is suitable for a variety of fishing conditions and applications.

The high-quality materials on this unit make casting easier, therefore increasing the confidence of every angler, including the novice.

Performance

Sunline Super FC is the flagship product, and it’s created with outstanding durability and reliability. It offers an incredible high specific gravity, and this makes it an ideal option for deep water fishing.

A functional unit, this line was designed with ice users in mind, as it can withstand the various fishing and water conditions.

High Sensitivity

If you’re wondering about the sensitivity of this line, you’ll be pleased to know it’s constructed from fluorocarbon.

Throughout the years, fluorocarbon has gained a reputation for being a highly sensitive material, and will as such, let you feel even the slightest of the nibble.

If you’re keen enough, you’ll notice that this fluorocarbon has a high strength-to-diameter ratio. This line is available in an extensive range of line diameters ranging from .17 to .41 mm.

The triple resin coating on this unit renders the line soft and more comfortable to handle. In particular, the suppleness of this unit is useful when lining reels, making long casts, or even tying complicated knots.

Sunline Super FC is a sturdy product, thanks to the extreme abrasion resistance. Regardless of whether you’re fishing a heavy load, or conquering the thickest and jagged rocks and ice, this line is more than impressive.

Cost and Value

The Sunline Super FC is among the highest-priced items on our list. The quality craftsmanship blows you and builds on this unit. A functional unit, the Sunline Super FC, ticks all the boxes for the best ice fishing line.

Rating Criteria

Adjustability: 96
Durability: 96
Effectiveness: 97
Portability: 96
Style: 98

Average: 96

8. Celsius Tip-up Line

The Celsius Tip-up Line is popular with anglers who prefer setting up tip up traps with baits. The standout feature of this line is its resistance to freezing capability, even in the coldest of winters. For its use as a Tip-up line, you can always count on it that it will do a fantastic job whenever you go ice fishing.

Strength

The Celsius Tip-up Line comes with a tensile strength rated between 15lb to 25lb. With this level of strength, the line can withstand the extra force generated by a fish caught in the bait. The strength serves to increase knot strength when casting. Despite its small diameter, the fish line is woven correctly together to improve the overall strength of the line.

Durability

This unit is constructed using high quality ultra-high-molecular braided strands (weight polyethylene), which will ensure that the unit stays intact for prolonged periods. Additionally, the strength of the line enhances its durability by minimizing the abrasion effects when the fish moves sideways.

Cost and value

The Celsius Tip-Line is among the budget-friendly ice line on our list. Despite its low price, you can bet this line will perform to your expectations with its ability to lift fish of up to 20lbs.  For its friendly price Celsius Tip-Line will serve you for an extended period without freezing up.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of the Celsius Tip-up line is enhanced by the reduced number of stretches that are evident throughout the line passing to the rod tip. You can be sure to feel even the faintest of touches to your bait by a fish.

Rating criteria

Effectiveness: 96
Durability: 96
Comfort: 95
Flexibility: 95

Average: 96

Criteria used for evaluation

Type of ice fishing line

There are 3 types of ice fishing lines available for selection in the market. They include; Monofilament, braided, and fluorocarbon fishing lines. All these ice fishing lines have their merits and demerits.

The most seasoned anglers always go for the monofilament line. It is flexible and simpler to cast and is also near invisible in water, making it difficult for fish to see. The fluorocarbon line does well when it comes to floating lures and baits. On the other hand, the braided ice fishing line lacks memory with zero stretchings.

Visibility

Fish reduce their movements in water during winter to preserve energy. In such circumstances, the fish will not rush to take your bait at the moment it spots it. It will study your bait and bid its time before deciding if it is safe to approach your lure. For this specific reason, you need to possess an invincible fishing line to be able to trap such an observant fish type. If they notice the line, the high chances are that they will get startled, and the fish won’t fall into your trap.

The fluorocarbon line offers great invisibility in the water. But in more lightweights, the braided line’s strength allows for small diameters, making it very difficult to see the line. So, ensure you get an ice fishing line that is close to invisible as possible.

Strength

The best ice fishing line is one that can cope with extreme weather conditions and has a well-matched diameter to strength ratio. The ice fishing line you want should have durable fibers that create robust fishing lines with high tensile strength and is abrasion-resistant and durable.

A strong ice fishing line can support the weight of even the biggest of fish sizes without snapping. Ice is also sharp-edged and jagged ends left by your auger when fishing might spoil your line or even cut fragile fishing lines.

Line memory

Line memory refers to the duration your line is capable of holding the coil after loosening off the reel. An excellent ice fishing line possesses a memory of zero to low memory. It implies that the line will stay straight to attain a superb lure presentation and feel even the tiniest of touch on the lure. It will not hold on to the coiled shape it takes when doubled over.

Fishing lines with low memory have smaller and fewer coils, while those with high memory have larger coils. Fishing lines with high memory will be very loose with low sensitivity leading to imbalanced presentations. Braided fish lines have a near-zero memory, while fluorocarbon lines have the worst memory.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of your ice fishing line will significantly determine whether your ice fishing trip will be a success or not. A straight line that passes through the jig and the rod tip will be needed to attain maximum sensitivity. A highly sensitive line will ensure you can perceive even the slightest of touches a fish’s bite generates on your bait and hook it immediately.

In freezing waters temperatures, fish tend to be less aggressive and have more subtle bites that are harder to detect. Therefore, ensure that you choose a highly sensitive fishing line. You don’t want to regret letting go of most of your fish simply because your line was not sensitive enough to detect motion.

Expert Tips

Line memory vs. line sensitivity

The best lines possess low memory to reduce the number of loops significantly. Therefore, the lower the memory, the higher your fish line will perform. The coil between your rod tip and lure can cause issues such as; lowering line sensitivity, imbalanced bait/lure presentations, slack in the line, and reducing the effectiveness of your hook sets.

To achieve a lower number of line coils on your line, you can fit on heavier jigs to constrict up the line or use a lightweight line. But the best way will be to use more massive jig heads to assist in reducing the line folds on your coil.

Using colored fishing lines

Using a colored line might be viewed as a deterrent to a clear water environment, but it can be a highly successful tactic to catch more fish. But this strategy should be applied very carefully less you go home empty-handed.

A colored line will enable you to notice its movement before you feel or detect any bite. When viewing the ice hole and you see the line moving to the edges, you will want to tighten up the line slightly or set the hook. What essentially a colored line provides, is a visual indicator. It is advantageous especially for fish with subtle bites where it is difficult to detect such bites.

A thing to note when using a colored line is that don’t try it directly to the jig/lure. Instead, have a 1 to 3-foot clear line reader, most preferably mono or fluorocarbon that is connected through a uni knot or swivel.

Using tip-ups

A tip-up is a gear employed when ice fishing by suspending a frozen or live bait at a measured depth level via an ice auger-drilled hole. The device then detects when a fish strikes without you having to be in contact with this piece of gear. A tip-up is primarily used near the perimeter of your area to trap predator fish that might scare the game fish you are aiming to catch.

To set up a tip-up device, bind an arbor knot with the fishing line around the tip up reel and wrap the line using your hand uniformly in a clockwise direction. Ensure that the fishing line you are using is capable of supporting the weight of the fish you are aiming to catch.

Other Factors To Consider

Stiffness

As an angler, you will always want to go with a line that is supple and flexible in the cold temperatures to have a smooth ice fishing trip. You must select an ice fishing rod that is constructed with a water-repellent coating.

Low temperatures can cause fishing lines to freeze and become brittle leading to unwanted breakages. An excellent ice fishing line is one that has a hydrophobic water-repellent coating. The purpose of this coating is to ensure the line doesn’t absorb water and is freeze-proof with no chance of getting stifle.

Stretch

The stretch of the line is how much the fishing line stretches once it is immersed in water. The ideal fishing line should possess little to no stretch. The monofilament lines are known to experience reduced stretching capabilities during the winter season.

But instead of opting to go for the more traditional monofilament ice fishing lines, the following two options are much suitable and effective; fluorocarbon line and the copolymer line. The fluorocarbon line is more flexible and less brittle, while the copolymer line is even more flexible and far much a better option. If you still need more strength, you can opt for the one with five-wire lines in any of these choices.

Weight

The weight of a fishing line is identified either in pounds or in kilograms. The fishing line you choose should have weight ratings that match the ice fishing rod, lure weights that you will be using, and that it will be firm enough to handle the fish sizes you are aiming to catch. If you are using a less dense line, for example, a 6lb line and you hook a big fish of about 12lb, the line will probably break, and you will lose the fish.

The advantage of choosing heavy fishing lines is that they last long. So, if you are seeking to have highly durable lines, we advise you to go for heavier fishing lines. But ensure you choose brass lures with a line to assist you to stretch it out.

Durability

You should purchase a fishing line that is going to last and serve you well for the long term. You don’t want to buy a new fishing line, each passing winter when you want to go for ice fishing. Always check how long the fishing line you have purchased will survive. Check its abrasion resistance capacity. Always go for the fishing line that is wear and tear-resistant.

It is here that the weight aspect of the line comes into play, as well. Both of these factors intertwine to determine the durability of an ice fishing line.

Friction

Ice fishing lines are exposed to a lot of friction continually when rubbing on the sharp bottom of the drilled ice holes, which can lead to tearing and breakages.

A hooked fish can also bring about considerable damage to your fishing line while scuffing along the ice corners. A fishing line having a proper line strength and additional measures such as an ice stopper bobber ensures the chances of breaking your line is minimal.

Ice Fishing Gear

• Shelter for Ice Fishing
• Ice Fishing Boots
• Electric Ice Auger
• Heaters for Ice Fishing
• Ice Fishing Rods
• Ice Fishing Sonars
• Ice Reel