Q: What type of line is used for Centerpin fishing?
A: Centerpin setups use a floating mainline paired with a clear fluorocarbon leader. The mainline stays high on the water for easy mending and drift control, while the leader provides stealth and sensitivity to detect subtle takes from steelhead and trout.
Q: What’s the difference between mainline and leader line?
A: The mainline connects your reel to the float and must drift smoothly with minimal drag. The leader line connects the float to your hook and shot pattern, providing invisibility and abrasion resistance in clear water.
Q: What kind of mainline should I choose?
A: Use a floating monofilament line specifically made for float fishing, such as Raven Mainline, Drennan Float Line, or Shimano Aero. These lines offer low stretch, high visibility, and excellent control on long drifts.
Q: What strength mainline works best for Centerpin fishing?
A: Most anglers use 8–12 lb test for the mainline. Heavier line offers better durability and mending control, while lighter line allows for longer, subtler drifts in low, clear water.
Q: What leader material should I use?
A: Fluorocarbon leader is preferred for its invisibility underwater and abrasion resistance. Popular choices include Raven Fluorocarbon, Seaguar, and Rio Fluoroflex.
Q: What strength leader should I use for steelhead or trout?
A: Use 4–10 lb test depending on water clarity and fish size — lighter for clear, calm conditions and heavier for fast or stained water.
Q: How long should my leader be?
A: A standard Centerpin leader is 6–12 feet long, often built in multiple sections using micro swivels. Longer leaders offer stealth, while shorter ones provide better control in deep or turbulent runs.
Q: What color mainline should I choose?
A: High-visibility colors like orange, yellow, or chartreuse help you track your drift and mend line effectively. Since the leader is clear, bright mainline colors won’t spook fish.
Q: Which brands make quality Centerpin lines?
A: Drift Outfitters carries top-performing lines from Raven, Drennan, Shimano, Rio, Seaguar, and Scientific Anglers — all tested and trusted for Great Lakes float fishing.
