If you’re fishing saltwater, understanding the PE rating on braided line is worth the effort, even if it sounds overly technical at first. Get a handle on it and it’ll actually change how you pick line for a trip. Here’s what PE rating means and how to think about choosing the right one.
What is PE rating
PE rating is a Japanese sizing system that describes the thickness of braided line, based on denier rather than a simple diameter measurement, though it’s commonly translated into an approximate millimetre figure for convenience. A PE rating of 1.0 is generally taken to correspond to a diameter of around 0.165mm. That’s different from a pound test rating, which tells you about strength rather than thickness. Manufacturers’ actual measured diameters can vary somewhat even at the same PE number, so treat these figures as a useful reference point rather than an exact standard.
PE rating versus line strength
PE rating tells you roughly how thick a line is, but it doesn’t tell you how strong it is. Breaking strain can differ quite a bit between two lines with the same PE rating, depending on the material and how tightly it’s woven. Two lines both rated PE 2.0 could easily test at 20lb and 40lb respectively. Always check the manufacturer’s specs for actual breaking strain rather than assuming it from the PE number alone.
Choosing the right PE rating
The PE rating you choose affects breaking strain, how the line handles current, sensitivity, how far you can cast, and how well you can control a jig or lure. As with most of your gear, the general rule is to go as thin and light as you can while still comfortably handling your target species.
PE ratings by technique
Different techniques and conditions call for different PE ratings. Here’s a rough guide based on common braid options on the market.
PE 0.5 to 1.0 suits ajing, squidding, micro jigging, and super light jigging.
PE 1.0 to 1.5 suits softbaiting, shore jigging, and super light jigging.
PE 1.5 to 2.0 suits slow pitch jigging and light lure casting.
PE 2.0 to 4.0 suits power slow pitch jigging, deepwater jigging, and light stickbaiting.
PE 4.0 to 8.0 suits heavy jigging and stickbaiting.
Getting a feel for PE rating, and how it plays into the rest of your setup, makes it a lot easier to pick the right line for your target species and the conditions you’re fishing in.
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