When evaluating braided fishing lines, one that has garnered mixed reviews is Beyond Braid. While it’s marketed with promises of strength, sensitivity, and durability, my personal experiences have revealed a clearer reality. Here’s a candid look at what to expect from the line in this Beyond Braid review.
The Hype Around Beyond Braid
Beyond Braid is privately owned, with its founders still actively involved in the company’s operations and direction. Beyond Braid enters the market with bold claims:
- No stretch
- No memory
- Cast further
- Lasts longer
Made from high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE) fibers, it’s touted as a line that can handle the toughest fishing environments. However, real-world performance may often tell us a different story as with any product.
Strength
Beyond Braid’s strength is one of its selling points, but it hasn’t always lived up to the hype. There have been instances where the line snapped under pressure, particularly when trying to pull fish out of heavy cover or navigating rocky areas. This has been a significant drawback, as reliability is paramount when battling larger fish.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity, another touted feature, has also been hit-or-miss. While the line does transmit some feel, it hasn’t consistently delivered the heightened sensitivity promised. This can make it challenging to detect subtle bites, which is essential for finesse techniques.
Versatility
Beyond Braid’s versatility is another aspect where my experiences have been mixed. While it functions adequately for certain techniques, it hasn’t excelled in any particular area. For example, while it’s decent for general casting, it hasn’t performed well for techniques requiring high sensitivity or extreme strength, such as jigging in heavy cover or targeting saltwater species.
Casting Performance
While Beyond Braid does offer a smooth profile that theoretically reduces friction, my casting experiences have been inconsistent. It allowed for reasonably long casts on good days, but there were also times when the line seemed to snag or create wind knots unexpectedly. This inconsistency can be frustrating, especially when precision casting is crucial for targeting specific spots.
Durability
One area where Beyond Braid needs to improve is durability. Despite claims of superior abrasion resistance, the line has shown signs of fraying and wear after a few fishing trips. The color retention could have been better, with the line fading noticeably after exposure to sunlight and repeated use. This lack of durability means more frequent line changes, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Price
Beyond Braid can be relatively expensive compared to other braided lines on the market. Given the durability and performance issues, some anglers might find it challenging to justify the cost.
Final Verdict
Beyond Braid fishing line has its strengths, such as smooth casting and high sensitivity, which can enhance the overall fishing experience. However, its durability issues, inconsistent performance, and higher price point may make it less appealing for some anglers. While Beyond Braid has its moments of adequacy, it’s essential to approach it with tempered expectations. Its performance can be inconsistent, and it doesn’t always live up to the hype claims made by its marketing.
In summary, Beyond Braid might work for casual fishing or as a backup line, but there may be better choices for serious anglers seeking reliability and better options. For anglers looking for a reliable, durable, and sensitive line, other options on the market might offer more consistent results. The fishing line market is vast, and finding the right fit often involves trial and error. Beyond Braid, while not a complete miss, has proven to be less than stellar in my fishing adventures.