79: Berkley X5 And X9 Braid

Berkley X5 And X9 Braid

Introduction

Berkley has been producing world class fishing lines for many years. In fact that was one of the fishing products that Berkley started with in the fishing industry. The most famous lines by Berkley will certainly have to be Berkley’s Fireline; the superline that has proven itself well and is a favourite amongst the pros and the elite anglers. Berkley continues to enlarge its range of lines with the X line series called the Berkley X5 and the Berkley X9.

Smoothness

When it comes to casting distance, a smooth line will be a big help. Both Berkley X5 and X9 braid are smooth with the X9 being the smoother caster amongst the two. Generally the higher the carrier and the more tightly wound they are, the smoother they become. Both the Berkley X5 and X9 are amongst the smoothest lines in their segment.

While most braided lines come in either four or eight carriers, both Berkley X5 and X9 have their highest carrier count in their own categories. This means that within their categories they are the smoothest casting lines gliding through guides more efficiently than the other lines.

Tougher

More carriers also means better toughness. Within their categories the Berkley X5 and X9 are the toughest and offers the best abrasion resistance. This means that they are better suited for heavy cover fishing being tougher and able to cut through most vegetation.

Tough, smooth, and reliable fishing line.

Sensitivity

Both the Berkley X5 and X9 braid comes tightly wound and have almost close to zero stretch. This makes allows them to transmit vibrations well which means that they are super sensitive allowing the angler to feel every bump, surface, etc. Apart from this, having almost zero stretch also helps the angler set hooks more effectively amounting to more hook-ups.

Good Knot Holding Strength

Ok, before I go on to talk about knot strength, know this. Not all knots are suitable with braided lines (or super-lines). This is because braided lines (super-lines) can dig into each other and cut each other. Four knots that I recommend are the Berkley Braid knot, Uni knot (with more turns- at least 10 turns or loops), Palomar knot, and improved San Diego Jam knot.

That said, smooth lines are usually slippery and knots may not hold well. However, Berkley super-lines including the X5 and X9 Braid holds very well. Perhaps it is the coating used. None of us have experienced knots slipping during the months that we have been using them. Most of the time I use the Palomar Knot as it is the quickest and easiest to tie. So for, I have not had any knot slip as well despite it being a simple knot.

Good Lines Great Price

While the Berkley X5 and X9 are not cheap lines; they are quality lines at more affordable price points. They certainly are good value for money for good performance lines that provides for good distance casting, good sensitivity, better strength and toughness, and good knot holding strength.